The Maine Turnpike Authority (MTA) has not chosen a route for the road that will connect Gorham to the turnpike, although a recent map in the Portland Press Herald appeared to show it encroaching on the Gorham Country Club golf course. Peter Mills, MTA executive director, said, “Over the many years that the Gorham Connector has been under consideration, there have been a number of sketches suggesting route alternatives.” He gave assurances that “indeed there are several major possibilities that need to be studied before a decision is made.”

Projected to open in 2026 at a cost of between $191 million and $237 million, the four-lane toll road will originate at the turnpike exit near the Maine Mall. Before construction can begin, the MTA must reconfigure Exit 45 and widen the turnpike around Portland to six lanes in order to accommodate the added traffic.

The MTA intends to use the time before construction can begin to study how and where to build a new highway. “Defining a route for the road is a complex calculus of engineering, environmental, social, and financial considerations,” Mills said. However, he has talked with approximately 25 households in the neighborhoods that might be affected, some on South Street and Brackett Road, to let them know that the route has not been selected and to invite them to contact him with their questions.