The Lewiston-Auburn Railroad Bridge spans the Androscoggin River in Maine, between the cities of Lewiston and Auburn. The bridge, erected in 1909, had been closed to railroad traffic for more than 25 years. Recognizing the bridge's historic significance, the two cities undertook a plan for its reuse and decided the bridge could serve as the hub to a bicycle and pedestrian network through the twin cities.

The original bridge was maintained and, by replacing the railroad tracks with new weather resistant decking, the project has created a recreational space and transit link for both towns. The decking material chose, Trex, was more costly that a wood alternative but is made of recycled materials and does not decay, so it requires minimal maintenance.

The design reflects the railroad and mill history of the area, seen in elements such as the bridge's light fixtures which are reminiscent of old train stations. Two levels of lighting provide decorative illumination in the early evening and high intensity light at night. Observation platforms near the center of the river align with city limits and provide a natural resting area where users may appreciate the river, bridge and historic mills.

CREDITS...

• City of Lewiston, Maine
• City of Auburn, Maine
• Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments
• Wright-Pierce
• Skinner & Lambe, Inc.

JURY COMMENTS...

The restoration of this historic railroad bridge is low-key and economical. What caught the attention of the jury was the way the two communities recognized a mutual opportunity and seized it. This is a simple, but effective, project with lessons for other small cities with industrial relics and little money to protect them.