Surface Water Quality Protection Program (SWQPP)

For more information or to request a site visit contact: Chris Rushton SWQPP Project Manager Environmental Office (207) 624-3219 chris.rushton@maine.gov

The Surface Water Quality Protection Program (SWQPP) is a cooperative endeavor that joins local, state and federal organizations in efforts to reduce the effect of polluted stormwater runoff from state highways and other MDOT transportation facilities. The SWQPP uses federal and state funds to assist in the engineering design and construction of innovative and effective stormwater management projects. The program relies on the interest and expertise of local citizens and community groups to locate and nominate these problem areas. Sites can be nominated by visiting the the Quality Community Program Application Web site.

Quality Community Program Application

The Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) is pleased to announce its new Quality Community Program, a new name for existing programs you are probably already familiar with, such as Transportation Enhancements, Safe Routes to School, Small Harbor Improvement Program, and various other community programs. The Department has consolidated the former individual applications into a “common” Quality Community Program application to improve overall program and project delivery, as well as to simplify application processes.

MaineDOT’s Quality Community Program includes federal and state funding opportunities to improve the quality community environment in Maine. This competitive program is intended to improve community transportation related facilities through small harbor improvements, bicycle and pedestrian improvements, safety improvements, environmental improvements, scenic, historic, and other quality community improvements. The application is due Friday, June 6th, 2008 to compete for funding available in fiscal years 2010-2011.

• Visit the Quality Community Program Application Web site (Web site)

Using an objective 14-point criterion, projects are selected from a pool of locally-nominated sites. Nominations are accepted on a rolling basis. Priority is given to sites located within Non-point Source Priority Watersheds, Atlantic Salmon Watersheds, Non-attainment Watersheds (303(d) waters) and Watersheds Most-at-risk from Development.