With the Upper Machias Bay Master Plan now complete, the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) is preparing to begin the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process for the Machias Dike Bridge project, marking the next step in evaluating long-term solutions for the crossing.

MaineDOT participated in the process to provide technical information and context regarding the department's work, while respecting that the effort was developed and led at the local level. The master plan discussion covered a range of recommendations, including an in-kind replacement of the Machias Dike Bridge.

As required by federal law, an EIS demands all alternatives be considered based on the purpose and need of the project. The EIS process, expected to begin in spring 2026, will include a detailed evaluation of those alternatives, environmental considerations and opportunities for public input. A project timeline will be shared once that process is formally under way.

In the meantime, MaineDOT and its contractors continue final work on the interim bridge structure. The upgraded temporary bridge is now open to traffic, and the project is expected to be completed by June 2026.

For more information, visit maine.gov/dot/major-projects/machias-dike-bridge-project.