The new Gorham bypass road will open Friday afternoon - six months ahead of schedule, the Maine Department of Transportation announced today.

The 3.4 mile bypass is an extension of Route 112. It begins about two miles south of the town center at Route 114 and rims the southwest section of the village, connecting with routes 202/4 and 25.

The bypass includes three roundabouts, located at each end and at Route 202/4.

The bypass will open to traffic following a 1 p.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony including state and local officials.

First proposed more than 50 years ago, the bypass will carry about 7,200 vehicles a day around the town center.