Bangor Council Approves Retaining Wall Repairs

The city will partner with Gordon Contracting to rebuild a century-old retaining wall along the Kenduskeag Stream.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Construction

Bangor Council Approves Retaining Wall Repairs

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Bangor City Council has authorized a contract with Sangerville-based Gordon Contracting to replace a crumbling retaining wall at Hamlin Park. The century-old structure has sustained damage from tidal vulnerability and encroaching plant growth.

Why it matters

Replacing the aging barrier is essential to prevent a structural collapse into the Kenduskeag Stream. The city aims to mitigate risks to public infrastructure before the damage mirrors previous failures seen west of Franklin Street.

The awarded contract for the project is valued at $3.8 million, covering the replacement of 115 feet of wall measuring 26 feet in average height. Three companies submitted bids for the work, with Gordon Contracting providing the lowest offer.

The players

Bangor City Council

The local governing body responsible for legislative decisions and the approval of public infrastructure contracts in Bangor.

Gordon Contracting

A construction company based in Sangerville that was selected to perform repairs on the city infrastructure.

The details

The project addresses structural vulnerabilities identified in a site evaluation, including granite blocks dislodged by tidal activity and eroded grout protecting internal steel pins. The contractor plans to minimize disruptions for local businesses and residents by reducing the overall length of construction time.

Earlier in 2026, a site evaluation identified damage to the wall.
October 21, 2026, City Council authorized the construction contract.

Market Landscape

This project follows a pattern set by the structural failure and subsequent replacement of a retaining wall west of Franklin Street. By securing this contract, the city is prioritizing long-term maintenance to avoid expensive emergency repairs and potential environmental cleanup.

Local residents and businesses near Hamlin Park can expect construction activities aimed at securing the shoreline between Central and Hammond streets. The city intends to manage the project to minimize daily disruptions to the surrounding area.

The takeaway

Maintaining century-old infrastructure is a critical fiscal priority for the city to protect waterfront areas. Officials are proactively addressing structural decay to ensure public safety before environmental or property damage occurs.