WILTON -- The town of Wilton has been saved from having to raise or borrow more than $100,000 to replace the small but critical Canal Street Bridge downtown that leads to the Wilson Lake boat ramp.

The Maine Department of Transportation has reconsidered its decision to remove the bridge, Town Manager Rhonda Irish said during Tuesday's selectmen's meeting. Instead, the state will replace the one-lane bridge connecting Main Street to Canal Street.

"This is great news for the taxpayers. The plan is to start work on it as early as next summer," she said.

Irish and selectmen have defended the bridge, garnered community support and met with members of DOT's Bridge Committee, both in Augusta and again at the site, to state their case. Earlier this year, the town was informed by DOT that the bridge was failing and was scheduled to be removed. Replacing it would be the responsibility of the town.

Bridge officials decided the bridge was not essential since they said there was a second way for vehicles to access to the boat ramp -- via the northern end of Canal Street, selectmen said. That secondary route, however, is winding and difficult to maneuver for vehicles hauling boat trailers.

"After we talked to them and they reviewed the situation, they realized we had extenuating circumstances and that this bridge was the access to the boat ramp," she said.

"What made the difference was when we brought them up here so they could see for themselves," said Selectman Tom Saviello.

The DOT is required to hold public hearings locally on the project, which could happen as early as this fall, Irish said.

"This is a great opportunity for the town," said Chairman of the Board Terry Brann.

Betty Jespersen -- 778-6991

bjespersen@centralmaine.com