See the giant Jay paper mill equipment as it makes its slow move south | Photo
JAY — A massive piece of industrial equipment is beginning a two‑day trek across Maine, moving from the former Pixelle Specialty Solutions paper mill here to a new home in South Portland.
The “super oversize” heat recovery steam generator left the Jay site Tuesday evening under the supervision of Maine State Police, escort vehicles and crews from Barnhart Crane & Rigging and On Target Utility Services. The operation required extensive preparation, including the deployment of bucket trucks to raise power lines and the coordination of multiple utility workers to keep the convoy safe as it navigated through the mill’s gate and onto public roads.
Why the move matters
Heat recovery steam generators capture waste heat from industrial processes and convert it into steam, which can be used to generate electricity or provide process heating. Relocating the unit suggests that the equipment is being repurposed or sold, possibly to support new energy‑efficiency projects elsewhere in the state.
What happened on Tuesday
Early Tuesday evening, a line of vehicles assembled inside the gate of the shuttered mill. Workers from Barnhart Crane & Rigging made final adjustments to the giant trailer that will carry the generator, while utility crews from On Target began positioning bucket trucks to lift low‑hanging electrical lines.
As the convoy prepared to depart, the generator squeezed through the mill’s gate and began its journey onto Riley Road, heading south. A utility worker in a bucket truck lifted a power line to allow the oversize load to pass safely underneath. The procession continued out of Jay as darkness fell, with police escorting the unusual shipment to ensure it stayed on schedule and within legal dimensions.
Two‑day timeline
The move is expected to take roughly 48 hours. During that time, the escort will continue to manage traffic, coordinate with local authorities, and monitor the condition of the cargo. The route is designed to minimize disruption to residents and businesses, though some road closures and detours are likely along the way.
Community impact
Residents living near the route may experience temporary traffic delays and reduced visibility as the convoy passes. Local officials have been briefed on the schedule and are advising the public to avoid the area if possible. The Maine Department of Transportation has not issued any formal road closures, but drivers are urged to watch for oversize vehicles and follow any temporary signage.
Industry perspective
“Moving a piece of equipment this size requires precise planning and coordination across multiple disciplines,” said a spokesperson for Barnhart Crane & Rigging. “Our team works closely with law enforcement and utility providers to ensure the safety of the public and the integrity of the load.”
The transportation of such large industrial components is not uncommon in Maine, where several major infrastructure projects have required similar logistical efforts. However, the scale of this particular generator—described by crews as “super oversize”—makes it one of the more notable moves in recent memory.
Looking ahead
When the generator arrives in South Portland, it will be inspected and likely integrated into a new facility or repurposed for another project. The exact destination and purpose of the unit have not been disclosed, but the successful completion of the two‑day journey marks a major milestone for the teams involved.
The operation underscores the collaborative effort required to move heavy industrial equipment safely across the state, highlighting the expertise of Maine’s crane operators, utility crews, and law‑enforcement personnel. As the convoy continues its trek, observers along the route can witness a rare glimpse of Maine’s industrial heritage being relocated for a new chapter.
