Work to start to fix stuck NH-Maine bridge

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. (AP) -- Work is expected to start to fix a lift bridge between New Hampshire and Maine that had gotten stuck and caused traffic problems along the seacoast.

The work could take up to two days. Conditions weren't optimal: It was 9 degrees in Portsmouth on Thursday morning, and the wind chill made it feel like 14 below.

Department spokesman Bill Boynton said authorities were performing a routine test on Sarah Long Bridge on Wednesday when it failed to close all the way, becoming stuck about a foot over the roadbed.

Boyton said crews came up with a plan to fix the bridge. Officials don't know for sure whether the cold weather contributed to the problem.

The bridge carries the Route 1 Bypass over the Piscataqua River between Portsmouth and Kittery, Maine.