I’m writing to express my support for the continuation of the swing bridge across the Naples Causeway on Route 302. Not only is the swing bridge of historic importance to the state of Maine, it is vitally important to the current recreational economy here in southwestern Maine. It is an irreplaceable link to the past (think Songo Locks circa 1912) and an essential link in the chain that connects the 40 miles of waterway between Long Lake and Sebago.

To do away with the swing bridge has much greater impact than meets the eye. It would mean loss of income for local businesses, lack of access for recreational boaters (a crucial contributor to the local economy), and the loss of yet another historic treasure.

The Maine Department of Transportation hasn’t given a lot lately to improve the condition of roads in our region, so to further erode public perception by taking something away from our region is adding insult to injury. What better way to appreciate the beauty of southwestern Maine’s lakes region than on the very lakes we love? I urge the MDOT to reconsider its plans to close the Naples Causeway bridge to boater traffic.

Sincerely,

Laurie LaMountain

Denmark

452-8005