I-95 Piscataqua River Bridge Closed Due to Active Incident: Traffic Diverted in Portsmouth and Kittery
The Piscataqua River Bridge on Interstate 95, a crucial connection between Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and Kittery, Maine, was abruptly closed in both directions early Thursday morning due to an ongoing situation.
The closure has caused significant traffic disruptions as authorities work to manage the situation.
Bridge Closure and Traffic Diversions
The Piscataqua River Bridge, also commonly referred to as the “High Rise Bridge,” was shut down around 4:50 a.m., as confirmed by the New Hampshire State Police.
The reason for the closure has not been officially disclosed, but state police have described it as an “active incident.”
The sudden shutdown of this major bridge has led to immediate traffic diversions, with northbound vehicles being rerouted at Exit 7 in Portsmouth and southbound traffic redirected at Exit 3 in Kittery, Maine.
Commuters and travelers are advised to seek alternate routes as there is no clear indication of when the bridge will reopen.
The closure has resulted in significant delays and congestion in the surrounding areas, particularly during the morning rush hour.
Unconfirmed Reports of Gunshots
Adding to the tension surrounding the bridge closure, a News 9 crew on the scene reported hearing what sounded like gunshots from the vicinity of the bridge at approximately 4:50 a.m.
However, law enforcement has not yet confirmed these reports, and no further details have been provided regarding the nature of the incident.
The New Hampshire State Police and Maine State Police are actively managing the situation, but they have yet to release any specific information about the ongoing incident.
Residents and travelers in the area are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and avoid the area until further notice.
Impact on Local Traffic and Commuters
The closure of the Piscataqua River Bridge has caused widespread traffic issues, particularly for those commuting between New Hampshire and Maine.
The I-95 corridor is a critical route for both local and interstate travel, and the sudden disruption has led to significant delays.
Drivers are advised to use alternative routes, such as U.S. Route 1 or NH Route 16, to bypass the affected area.
Local businesses and residents have also been impacted by the closure, as the bridge serves as a vital link for daily commerce and travel.
Authorities are working to manage the situation as efficiently as possible, but the ongoing nature of the incident means that the bridge could remain closed for an extended period.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety
As the situation unfolds, the priority remains public safety.
Both the New Hampshire State Police and Maine State Police are on the scene, and additional resources have been deployed to ensure the safety of those in the area.
The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
In the meantime, the public is urged to stay clear of the area and to follow the instructions of law enforcement.
For those affected by the closure, staying informed through local news outlets and official social media channels is crucial.
Significant Disruption Due to Piscataqua River Bridge Closure
The closure of the Piscataqua River Bridge on Interstate 95 has created a significant disruption for travelers and residents in the Portsmouth and Kittery areas.
With traffic being diverted and unconfirmed reports of gunfire, the situation remains tense and fluid.
Authorities are working diligently to resolve the incident and ensure public safety, but it is unclear when the bridge will be reopened.
Travelers are advised to plan alternative routes and stay updated on the situation as it develops.
The Piscataqua River Bridge is a vital connection between New Hampshire and Maine, and its closure underscores the importance of staying informed and prepared for unexpected events.