HARPSWELL — The historic Cribstone Bridge reopened to traffic Saturday after a two-year, $11 million restoration project.

State and local officials spoke at a re-dedication ceremony that was attended by a large crowd and featured a parade of antique cars.

The bridge, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, serves as the only connection between mainland Harpswell and Bailey Island, a fishing village.

The bridge, which first opened in 1928, is believed to be the only structure of its kind in the United States. The bridge deck is supported by granite slabs that are stacked criss-cross to allow tidal waters to pass through while being heavy enough to withstand buffeting from waves and ice floes.

The stones from a nearby quarry are rough and uneven, so pine wedges were driven into cracks to prevent rocking and shifting. No mortar or cement was used.
 


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