SACO — The Stackpole Bridge has been discussed, debated and studied for more than a decade. Supporters of the structure have created a website, a Facebook Page, even written a song about the bridge.

The bridge, located on Simpson Road, was built in 1848 at the request of local farmers, according to documents from Maine Preservation, which in 2013 named the bridge on its annual list of Maine’s most endangered historic properties. It is the oldest stone bridge on a public road in Maine, according to Maine Preservation, and is noted for its keyhole-shaped, vaulted stone arch that rises 21 feet over the Stackpole Creek.

The bridge has been closed to automobile traffic since the spring of 2013, and plowing and emergency services are received on the north side of the bridge through collaboration with the town of Buxton.

In November of 2013, residents voted down a proposed $1.7 million “hybrid plan” that would have stabilized the bridge while restoring the lower masonry.

Since then, both the city and advocates of the bridge have researched lower-cost options.

City staff have come up with a proposal for a replacement bridge that would

cost $990,000.

Advocates of restoration of the bridge have received a professional opinion from a bridge engineer, and say that a restoration can be done for about $1 million, according to Stackpole Bridge abutter Margaret “Peg” Mills.

On Nov. 4, residents will vote whether to allow the city to borrow up to $990,000 for the repair or replacement of the bridge.

The city has secured the option of a low-interest loan ”“ earlier this month estimated at 1.625 percent ”“ through the state to cover half of the cost of the project.

City staff have laid out a plan for a 20-year loan for the proposed remaining balance, though Mayor Don Pilon believes the city doesn’t have to go out to bond for the proposed $495,000.

Pilon is urging residents to vote in favor of the Nov. 4 referendum. The bond needs to pass in order for the city to secure the low-interest loan from the state, and the deadline to acquire the loan is mid-November.

“That money is gone if we don’t take advantage of it,” said Pilon. “We have to put this to bed. We’ve got all our ducks in a row.”

Mills said the bridge is characteristic of New England architecture, and part of what distinguishes this area from other parts of the country. Restoring it is important in keeping the region’s historic heritage, she said.

In July, a nonprofit was established to fundraise for a restoration of the bridge. Mills said there has been $25,000 pledged should a restoration be approved, as well as nearly $3,000 in donations. Those interested in making a donation may send it to The Fund for Stackpole Bridge, 168 Simpson Road, Saco, ME 04072.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or [email protected].