SACO — A new proposal for the Stackpole Creek Bridge would protect the historic structure and provide a safe, long-lasting roadway.

The Stackpole Creek Bridge, located on Simpson Road, is a stone bridge that was constructed in 1848.

City officials have debated whether to restore or replace the bridge for 11 years.

CLD Consulting Engineers reported in January that the rate of deterioration in the bridge had increased in 2011. Metal bracing was installed in 2001, which, at the time, was anticipated to be a temporary, two-year stabilization measure.

Only one-way traffic is allowed on the bridge, and the city has restricted the load capacity. During major storm events, such as the recent Hurricane Sandy, the bridge is temporarily closed.

A 15-member ad hoc committee ”“ composed of officials and residents of Saco, and officials from Buxton ”“ unanimously recommended a plan by Massachusetts engineering firm Structures North Consulting Engineers.

The city council accepted the Structures North report Monday night and will discuss proposed plans for the bridge later in a workshop, according to Mayor Mark Johnston.

The $1.4 million proposal currently on the table was developed after reviewing restoration and replacement proposals, and is a “hybrid plan” that would “create a bridge within a bridge,” according to a letter written to the city by John Wathne, president of Structures North Consulting Engineers.

The proposal would stabilize and restore the lower masonry of the bridge. The upper portions of fill and top stone would be removed and replaced with a concrete roadway with supportive piles.

Johnston called the plan “a compromise” that preserves the historic structure and provides a roadway suitable for modern vehicles.

“There is no more waiting, this has to be done,” said Johnston.

Johnston said this proposed project is a “long-term capital investment,” that would last 75 to 100 years. He said he’d like to see a bond for the proposed project and a future referendum vote.

Councilor David Tripp, who also served on the ad hoc committee, said he was glad to have a plan of which everyone in the committee approved. He said he was impressed with Structures North, which has experience with historic restoration and masonry projects.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, Ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.