MADAWASKA, Maine (AP) The state of Maine has awarded the construction contract for a new bridge that will connect the northern part of the state to the Canadian province of New Brunswick.

The project will replace the century-old Edmundston–Madawaska Bridge. The Maine Department of Transportation said Thursday the current bridge is nearing the end of its useful life. The bridge has also been subject to a five-ton weight limit since 2017, and that has created a significant detour for drivers.

Maine DOT said the total project is expected to cost $97.5 million.

The state awarded the construction contract to Reed & Reed Inc. of Woolwich, Maine.