Hello, this is Governor Janet Mills, and thank you for listening.
You know, rural Maine is my home. And I know firsthand that our rural communities have the people, the work ethic, and the ideas to build a stronger future. What they haven't always had is the investment that's necessary to turn that potential into real progress.
Well, this week I was proud to announce that 17 rural communities and organizations across Maine have been awarded nearly $16 million in federal grants from the Northern Border Regional Commission for some important economic development projects. The Northern Border Regional Commission, along with the state of Maine, provides targeted federal investment for economic and community development projects in counties that are in states along the northern border.
Since the Commission was formed through legislation sponsored by then-Congressman Michael Michaud in 2008, Maine has received more than $100 million for hundreds of projects in rural communities. The projects that will receive funding through these latest awards will enhance economic development and build workforce housing, expand childcare, and fund infrastructure improvements. For example:
- Brooksville will use its grant to build the town's first all-tide public pier landing and boat ramp at Betsy's Cove.
- Tree Street Youth in Lewiston will build a new neighborhood center with childcare, a community meeting space, and youth workforce training.
- Farmington will benefit from a grant to build a multi-use pedestrian and snowmobile bridge over the Sandy River, extending the Whistle Stop Trail to downtown.
- And the Northern Maine Development Commission will create "Aroostook Rising," a two-year project to recruit talented workers.
I recommended these projects for federal funding after a competitive review conducted by my Department of Economic and Community Development. And recently, the Commission--the Northern Border Regional Commission--also announced awards in Maine through its Forest Economy and Timber for Transit programs.
- Main Street Skowhegan will put that grant towards the construction of a riverfront boardwalk that connects downtown businesses and neighborhoods to the Kennebec River and the Skowhegan River Park.
- The City of Rockland will use its grant to rebuild the public landing pier and redesign the harbormaster building to resist future severe storms and flooding.
- And the Southern Aroostook Development Corporation will use its award to develop a modern forest products manufacturing facility in the Houlton Industrial Park.
Communities across rural Maine have the people and the potential to build a strong future. Now, they also have the resources to create good jobs, strengthen local businesses, build workforce housing, improve critical infrastructure, and expand industries that are so vital to our state.
This is Governor Janet Mills, and thank you for listening. And to all those who are celebrating this weekend, all fathers and father figures, Happy Father's Day.