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The westbound lanes of the Ticonic Bridge are closed as work continues to replace the aging span. The bridge is shown Wednesday from the Winslow side of the structure. Michael G. Seamans/Morning Sentinel

Do you still patronize businesses in downtown Waterville despite detours caused by the replacement of the Ticonic Bridge?

The $52.8 million replacement of the Ticonic Bridge over the Kennebec River between Waterville and Winslow hasn’t just created traffic hassles.

Some business owners and leaders are raising concerns that the partial closure of the bridge is already “killing” business for some in Waterville’s downtown area.

Under the project, westbound traffic from Winslow into downtown Waterville is prohibited, while traffic leaving Waterville and heading east into Winslow is currently allowed. Waterville-bound traffic is being detoured over the nearby Carter Memorial Bridge instead. State officials expect this traffic pattern to be in place for another three years as the bridge project is underway.

Some business owners say they are already noticing fewer customers and sales, and have heard some people say they’re actively avoiding downtown Waterville because of the bridge work.

But what about you? Do you still patronize businesses in downtown Waterville despite detours caused by the replacement of the Ticonic Bridge? Tell us in the poll and comments below.

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