CHINA -- Town Manager Daniel L'Heureux updated selectmen on two ongoing projects: replacing a bridge over the Sheepscot River and saving the one-room schoolhouse in Weeks Mills.

The Ryan's Lane bridge was built after the 1987 flood to replace one that once carried the main road between Branch Mills and Weeks Mills. This summer, selectmen deemed the wooden structure no longer safe.

After listening to residents on both sides of the stream -- some wanting the bridge removed and others wanting it repaired for recreational use -- selectmen directed L'Heureux to explore rebuilding it.

L'Heureux said at Monday evening's meeting Avery Glidden from Palermo has a plan to use secondhand steel girders, set into concrete abutments if necessary. Glidden measured the span Monday, he said.

Selectman Neil Farrington suggested another discussion with neighbors and Glidden before work begins.

The town has a grant to help restore the former Weeks Mills school, which closed in 1949. L'Heureux said plans have been completed for the first phase: rebuilding the granite foundation. Bids for the work are being solicited.

The deadline for returning bids is 1 p.m. Nov. 9. The Waterville engineering firm of A.E. Hodsdon prepared the plans and is handling the bidding process, L'Heureux said.

Selectmen also signed China's half of a mutual-aid agreement between the Weeks Mills and Somerville volunteer fire departments.

During previous discussions, Weeks Mills firefighters said they and Somerville cooperate anyway.