Traffic Changes Ahead: Hogan Road's Diverging Diamond Interchange Plans

In March of 2024, the Maine DOT unveiled their plans to alleviate some of the traffic issues and congestion around Hogan Road and Exit 187 on the interstate. They hoped their proposal of what they called a "Diverging Diamond Interchange" or a DDI for short, would help with matters of safety and access as well.

They said that particular stretch of road sees upwards of 35,000 cars a day, and has been the scene of more than 100 crashes over the past few years. The lack of sidewalks in that area also causes issues for pedestrians walking in the area. But to make the plan work, that bridges in the area will have to be replaced, and the entire traffic pattern ultimately re-rerouted and changed significantly.

While crews have been slowly staging work areas and materials along the exits and highway, the Maine DOT says work is about to "ramp up" as the initial part of the project begins. They say motorists should ready themselves for a time-table of 3 years for the work to be completed.

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"Traffic impacts should be minimal during the first phase of construction as a new bridge is built just to the south of the current bridge. CPM Constructors is the prime contractor for this project, which is expected to be completed in 2029. We appreciate your patience as we work to improve safety and mobility at this critical intersection."

According to the Maine DOT website, the real delays will come when the drainage system for the project is installed.

"Most traffic patterns will remain unchanged until the new bridge is completed in late fall 2027. However, drivers may encounter occasional disruptions in 2026 and 2027, such as lane reductions or alternating traffic, as crews install new drainage systems and as utility companies relocate poles and wires. Traffic on the interstate will be reduced to one lane northbound and one lane southbound with the northbound being reopened to two lanes from July 1st to September 12th. "

They said they'll try to limit disruptions to the interstate ramps, by doing work to those areas in the overnight hours, between 7PM and 5 AM.

The plan is to use billboards to inform people of where to go, and give them some warning about when the overnight work would be taking place.

The total price tag for this project sits at just over $56,600,000.

Meanwhile, just up the road a bit, the Broadway Bridge Replacement is still taking place. The Maine DOT says they hope to have that project wrapped up later on this year.