Madawaska U.S. Land Port of Entry and International Bridge Replacement

The international bridge connecting Madawaska, Maine, and Edmundston, New Brunswick, was posted at 5 tons—the weight of a passenger car—and determined to be near the end of its useful life. Several deficiencies and physical limitations were also identified at the adjoining Madawaska Land Port of Entry (LPOE). Gannett Fleming helped lead a team of key stakeholders to prepare a feasibility study for a new LPOE and international bridge connecting to the Port of Entry in Edmundston. The study laid the foundation for a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The posting of the existing international bridge created an aggressive schedule for the project.

Our comprehensive evaluation of location alternatives to avoid or minimize adverse impacts identified the preferred location for the LPOE approximately 1,300 feet upriver of the current bridge on 8.7 acres along the Saint John River. The new facilities will provide for the long-term safe and efficient flow of current and projected traffic volumes, including the movement of goods and people, between the U.S. and Canada.

Our firm collected data; assisted with stakeholder outreach; performed analyses of a wide range of natural, social, and economic considerations; assisted with public involvement in both Madawaska and Edmundston; and led the production of several final reports. The feasibility and planning study identified the preferred locations and alternatives for both the LPOE and international bridge. The SEIS considered six alternatives—three for the LPOE and three for the bridge—in greater detail and compared them to the no-build alternative.

In accordance with the U.S. Department of Transportation Act, we prepared a Section 4(f) Evaluation for replacing the existing international bridge, a resource listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Gannett Fleming also identified the numerous permits that would be necessary for constructing a new LPOE and international bridge on both sides of the border. Our firm also assisted with and led portions of an extensive public involvement program.

• Feasibility and planning study identified the preferred locations and alternatives for both the LPOE and international bridge.
• SEIS detailed the planning, avoidance, and minimization of impacts for both the LPOE and international bridge in accordance with the NEPA.
• Programmatic Section 4(f) Evaluation determined the most feasible and prudent alternative.

• More efficient flow of people and goods between the U.S. and Canada.
• Determination that new construction is preferable to alternatives.
• Reestablishes safe passage for vehicles heavier than 5 tons.