GORHAM, Maine — The driver of a dump truck learned the hard way that it’s best not to tempt fate on a covered bridge originally built before the Civil War.
The loaded vehicle crashed into the Presumpscot River on Friday afternoon, leaving a hole in the planks in the shape of the truck.
The driver suffered minor injuries, police said, but the same couldn’t be said for Babb’s Bridge, which was originally built in 1840 and rebuilt in 1976 after a fire. The best-case scenario is the bridge will be closed for a few months, officials said.
The weight limit on the bridge was 3 tons (2,700 kilograms), and the dump truck carrying crushed stone was “multiple times that,” said Paul Merrill, spokesperson for the Maine Department of Transportation.
The truck was crossing from Gorham into Windham when it plummeted into the water. The Gorham Police Department said the mishap remains under investigation. The driver didn’t respond to messages from The Associated Press.
A historic covered bridge in Maine has been severely damaged after a dump truck crashed into it and plunged into the river below. The accident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, causing significant structural damage to the beloved landmark.
The bridge, which is located in the town of Somerset, has been a popular tourist attraction for decades. Built in the 1800s, it is one of the few remaining covered bridges in the state and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The driver of the dump truck reportedly lost control of the vehicle while crossing the bridge, crashing through the wooden barriers and falling into the river below. Fortunately, no one was injured in the accident, but the damage to the bridge is extensive.
Local officials are now assessing the extent of the damage and working on a plan to repair and restore the bridge. The cost of repairs is expected to be significant, and it is unclear how long the bridge will be out of commission.
The incident has sparked outrage among residents and preservationists who are concerned about the future of the historic structure. Many are calling for increased safety measures to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future.
In the meantime, visitors are being urged to stay away from the bridge until further notice. The town is also exploring options for temporary repairs to ensure the safety of the structure while more permanent solutions are put in place.
The loss of this iconic covered bridge is a blow to the community and a reminder of the importance of preserving our historic landmarks. It serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of these structures and the need for vigilance in protecting them from harm.
