ORONO, Maine — The combination of Saturday’s graduation ceremonies at the University of Maine and construction on some lanes of Interstate 95 in Bangor could snarl area traffic, the university warned.
UMaine’s commencement, by far the largest in Maine each year, is divided into two ceremonies. One begins at 10 a.m. and the other at 2:30 p.m. Those planning to attend are encouraged to allow extra time and to expect delays on I-95 and moving through Orono.
Those traveling to the university via Interstate 95 should consider using Exit 197 and traveling through Old Town to the university’s Park Street entrance if traffic is significantly backed up at the exits closer to Bangor.
UMaine will operate a continuous shuttle bus service from the Steam Plant Parking lot, Belgrade lot, Maine Center for the Arts lot and Hilltop lot to Alfond Arena before and after the ceremonies.
Those driving from anywhere south of Bangor should anticipate one-lane travel (in both directions) at the I-395 overpass on I-95 at the southernmost Bangor exit.
Those traveling from southern Maine are advised that the Maine Department of Transportation is planning weekend work on I-295 northbound, reducing traffic between Brunswick and Gardiner to one lane.
Around 12,000 people are expected for UMaine’s ceremonies, which are held in Alfond Arena.