#mdot — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #mdot, aggregated by home.social.
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Oh, and of course, I knew once #AmazonCorp announced plans to build a warehouse in #GorhamME, the #GorhamConnector would rear its ugly head again... And even though #JanetMills' brother #PeterMills is no longer in charge of #MDOT doesn't mean the new director won't be pushing this... Instead of a light rail system or rapid bus transit on the existing roads (and / or safer bike lanes. I knew friends who used to bike from Gorham to Portland, but it got too dangerous because of a lack of dedicated bike lanes and speeders).
#MDOT will launch new examination of traffic issues west of Portland
The state study will focus on Gorham, #ScarboroughME, #SouthPortlandME and #WestbrookME.
Robert Lowell, April 22, 2026
Excerpt: "The announcement of the new study comes just days before Amazon goes to the Gorham Planning Board on May 4, seeking approval for a warehouse and distribution center on Main Street (Route 25). Traffic will likely be one issue fueling concerns about the Amazon project.
"The study also comes in the aftermath of plans the Maine Turnpike Authority shelved last year for a four-lane toll road connector to Gorham. The connector was aimed at reducing commuter rush-hour traffic in the routes 22 and 114 commuter corridor [which the #Maine Legislature failed to make go away!]
"A connector would have linked the roundabout at South Street (Route 114) and the southerly end of Gorham’s Bernard Rines Bypass with the turnpike’s Exit 45 in South Portland. The connector proposal was met with a public outcry because it called for cutting a swath through #SmilingHillFarm in #WestbrookME."
Archived version:
https://archive.md/Rh3bH#MainePol #InducedSprawl #Maine #RuralLife #SaveTheFarms #SaveRedBrook #MainersForSmarterTransportation #Maine #MaineNews #GorhamBypass #GorhamSpur #Maine #RapidTransit #SaveTheFarms #ProtectTheForest #InducedDemand #Sprawl #SaveRedBrook #ProtectTheWetlands #BrookTrout #SaveTheForest #Wildlife #HuskyLine #RapidBusTransit
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Oh, and of course, I knew once #AmazonCorp announced plans to build a warehouse in #GorhamME, the #GorhamConnector would rear its ugly head again... And even though #JanetMills' brother #PeterMills is no longer in charge of #MDOT doesn't mean the new director won't be pushing this... Instead of a light rail system or rapid bus transit on the existing roads (and / or safer bike lanes. I knew friends who used to bike from Gorham to Portland, but it got too dangerous because of a lack of dedicated bike lanes and speeders).
#MDOT will launch new examination of traffic issues west of Portland
The state study will focus on Gorham, #ScarboroughME, #SouthPortlandME and #WestbrookME.
Robert Lowell, April 22, 2026
Excerpt: "The announcement of the new study comes just days before Amazon goes to the Gorham Planning Board on May 4, seeking approval for a warehouse and distribution center on Main Street (Route 25). Traffic will likely be one issue fueling concerns about the Amazon project.
"The study also comes in the aftermath of plans the Maine Turnpike Authority shelved last year for a four-lane toll road connector to Gorham. The connector was aimed at reducing commuter rush-hour traffic in the routes 22 and 114 commuter corridor [which the #Maine Legislature failed to make go away!]
"A connector would have linked the roundabout at South Street (Route 114) and the southerly end of Gorham’s Bernard Rines Bypass with the turnpike’s Exit 45 in South Portland. The connector proposal was met with a public outcry because it called for cutting a swath through #SmilingHillFarm in #WestbrookME."
Archived version:
https://archive.md/Rh3bH#MainePol #InducedSprawl #Maine #RuralLife #SaveTheFarms #SaveRedBrook #MainersForSmarterTransportation #Maine #MaineNews #GorhamBypass #GorhamSpur #Maine #RapidTransit #SaveTheFarms #ProtectTheForest #InducedDemand #Sprawl #SaveRedBrook #ProtectTheWetlands #BrookTrout #SaveTheForest #Wildlife #HuskyLine #RapidBusTransit
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Oh, and of course, I knew once #AmazonCorp announced plans to build a warehouse in #GorhamME, the #GorhamConnector would rear its ugly head again... And even though #JanetMills' brother #PeterMills is no longer in charge of #MDOT doesn't mean the new director won't be pushing this... Instead of a light rail system or rapid bus transit on the existing roads (and / or safer bike lanes. I knew friends who used to bike from Gorham to Portland, but it got too dangerous because of a lack of dedicated bike lanes and speeders).
#MDOT will launch new examination of traffic issues west of Portland
The state study will focus on Gorham, #ScarboroughME, #SouthPortlandME and #WestbrookME.
Robert Lowell, April 22, 2026
Excerpt: "The announcement of the new study comes just days before Amazon goes to the Gorham Planning Board on May 4, seeking approval for a warehouse and distribution center on Main Street (Route 25). Traffic will likely be one issue fueling concerns about the Amazon project.
"The study also comes in the aftermath of plans the Maine Turnpike Authority shelved last year for a four-lane toll road connector to Gorham. The connector was aimed at reducing commuter rush-hour traffic in the routes 22 and 114 commuter corridor [which the #Maine Legislature failed to make go away!]
"A connector would have linked the roundabout at South Street (Route 114) and the southerly end of Gorham’s Bernard Rines Bypass with the turnpike’s Exit 45 in South Portland. The connector proposal was met with a public outcry because it called for cutting a swath through #SmilingHillFarm in #WestbrookME."
Archived version:
https://archive.md/Rh3bH#MainePol #InducedSprawl #Maine #RuralLife #SaveTheFarms #SaveRedBrook #MainersForSmarterTransportation #Maine #MaineNews #GorhamBypass #GorhamSpur #Maine #RapidTransit #SaveTheFarms #ProtectTheForest #InducedDemand #Sprawl #SaveRedBrook #ProtectTheWetlands #BrookTrout #SaveTheForest #Wildlife #HuskyLine #RapidBusTransit
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Oh, and of course, I knew once #AmazonCorp announced plans to build a warehouse in #GorhamME, the #GorhamConnector would rear its ugly head again... And even though #JanetMills' brother #PeterMills is no longer in charge of #MDOT doesn't mean the new director won't be pushing this... Instead of a light rail system or rapid bus transit on the existing roads (and / or safer bike lanes. I knew friends who used to bike from Gorham to Portland, but it got too dangerous because of a lack of dedicated bike lanes and speeders).
#MDOT will launch new examination of traffic issues west of Portland
The state study will focus on Gorham, #ScarboroughME, #SouthPortlandME and #WestbrookME.
Robert Lowell, April 22, 2026
Excerpt: "The announcement of the new study comes just days before Amazon goes to the Gorham Planning Board on May 4, seeking approval for a warehouse and distribution center on Main Street (Route 25). Traffic will likely be one issue fueling concerns about the Amazon project.
"The study also comes in the aftermath of plans the Maine Turnpike Authority shelved last year for a four-lane toll road connector to Gorham. The connector was aimed at reducing commuter rush-hour traffic in the routes 22 and 114 commuter corridor [which the #Maine Legislature failed to make go away!]
"A connector would have linked the roundabout at South Street (Route 114) and the southerly end of Gorham’s Bernard Rines Bypass with the turnpike’s Exit 45 in South Portland. The connector proposal was met with a public outcry because it called for cutting a swath through #SmilingHillFarm in #WestbrookME."
Archived version:
https://archive.md/Rh3bH#MainePol #InducedSprawl #Maine #RuralLife #SaveTheFarms #SaveRedBrook #MainersForSmarterTransportation #Maine #MaineNews #GorhamBypass #GorhamSpur #Maine #RapidTransit #SaveTheFarms #ProtectTheForest #InducedDemand #Sprawl #SaveRedBrook #ProtectTheWetlands #BrookTrout #SaveTheForest #Wildlife #HuskyLine #RapidBusTransit
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Oh, and of course, I knew once #AmazonCorp announced plans to build a warehouse in #GorhamME, the #GorhamConnector would rear its ugly head again... And even though #JanetMills' brother #PeterMills is no longer in charge of #MDOT doesn't mean the new director won't be pushing this... Instead of a light rail system or rapid bus transit on the existing roads (and / or safer bike lanes. I knew friends who used to bike from Gorham to Portland, but it got too dangerous because of a lack of dedicated bike lanes and speeders).
#MDOT will launch new examination of traffic issues west of Portland
The state study will focus on Gorham, #ScarboroughME, #SouthPortlandME and #WestbrookME.
Robert Lowell, April 22, 2026
Excerpt: "The announcement of the new study comes just days before Amazon goes to the Gorham Planning Board on May 4, seeking approval for a warehouse and distribution center on Main Street (Route 25). Traffic will likely be one issue fueling concerns about the Amazon project.
"The study also comes in the aftermath of plans the Maine Turnpike Authority shelved last year for a four-lane toll road connector to Gorham. The connector was aimed at reducing commuter rush-hour traffic in the routes 22 and 114 commuter corridor [which the #Maine Legislature failed to make go away!]
"A connector would have linked the roundabout at South Street (Route 114) and the southerly end of Gorham’s Bernard Rines Bypass with the turnpike’s Exit 45 in South Portland. The connector proposal was met with a public outcry because it called for cutting a swath through #SmilingHillFarm in #WestbrookME."
Archived version:
https://archive.md/Rh3bH#MainePol #InducedSprawl #Maine #RuralLife #SaveTheFarms #SaveRedBrook #MainersForSmarterTransportation #Maine #MaineNews #GorhamBypass #GorhamSpur #Maine #RapidTransit #SaveTheFarms #ProtectTheForest #InducedDemand #Sprawl #SaveRedBrook #ProtectTheWetlands #BrookTrout #SaveTheForest #Wildlife #HuskyLine #RapidBusTransit
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🚧ICYMI🚧
MCDOT is rolling out its spring sidewalk construction schedule, with approximately 10 miles of new sidewalks in the active planning or construction phase across #MontgomeryCoMD.
🚧🔗 https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/news/spring-construction-underway-montgomery-countys-annual-sidewalk-programs-0
#VisionZeroMC #mdroads #mdtraffic #sidewalks #MDOT #sidewalks #MCPS #walking -
📰NEW📰
The March 2026 edition of our 'GO Montgomery' newsletter is now available! 🗣️ News and information about #transportation, including #roads, transit, hiker-biker trails and pedestrian safety.
📰▶️ https://gomontgomery.blogspot.com/
#montgomerycountymd #WMATA #transittooter #transit #commuting #mdcommuters #MDOT #Maryland #visionZero #pedestriansafety #videocontest #headsupphonesdown -
So, it looks like #MDOT hired someone to take down the two #GreenAsh trees down the road from us (that were infested with #EmeraldAshBorer ). Whoever took them down knew what they were doing. Nothing but a bit of the stumps left. As for the ash trees down the road the other way? I think they belong to the neighbors who have been having domestic issues lately.
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So, it looks like #MDOT hired someone to take down the two #GreenAsh trees down the road from us (that were infested with #EmeraldAshBorer ). Whoever took them down knew what they were doing. Nothing but a bit of the stumps left. As for the ash trees down the road the other way? I think they belong to the neighbors who have been having domestic issues lately.
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So, it looks like #MDOT hired someone to take down the two #GreenAsh trees down the road from us (that were infested with #EmeraldAshBorer ). Whoever took them down knew what they were doing. Nothing but a bit of the stumps left. As for the ash trees down the road the other way? I think they belong to the neighbors who have been having domestic issues lately.
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So, it looks like #MDOT hired someone to take down the two #GreenAsh trees down the road from us (that were infested with #EmeraldAshBorer ). Whoever took them down knew what they were doing. Nothing but a bit of the stumps left. As for the ash trees down the road the other way? I think they belong to the neighbors who have been having domestic issues lately.
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So, it looks like #MDOT hired someone to take down the two #GreenAsh trees down the road from us (that were infested with #EmeraldAshBorer ). Whoever took them down knew what they were doing. Nothing but a bit of the stumps left. As for the ash trees down the road the other way? I think they belong to the neighbors who have been having domestic issues lately.
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🚶♀️🚶♀️🚶♂️🚶🚶♀️🚶♂️🚶
#MDOT is hosting several webinars spotlighting🚶walking🚶♀️, the official state exercise.
⭐️Join MDOT every Thursday during October from 10:30am to Noon at one of their FIVE #free Walkinars.
Details🔗 https://mdot.maryland.gov/tso/pages/Index.aspx?PageId=123 #montgomerycountymd #walking #maryland #webinars #october #walktober #free -
Rhysida Ransomware Hits Maryland Dept. of Transportation https://dailydarkweb.net/rhysida-ransomware-hits-maryland-dept-of-transportation/ #TheMarylandDepartmentofTransportation #RansomwareNews #transportation #CyberSecurity #UnitedStates #databreach #government #ransomware #Rhysida #MDOT
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What's on my mind? Why #SmilingHillFarm! And yeah, I suspect #MTA / #MDOT is going to try and build the #GorhamConnector again, since the bill to kill the connector failed. I heard the new Maine Turnpike Authority director on WMPG earlier today. It sounds like they are going to have MDOT push the connector through -- rather than build #LightRail or a #RapidTransitBusSystem or safer #BikeLanes! smh...
#Maine - Bill to kill Gorham Connector crashes in committee
PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • May 8, 2025
"A bill that would ensure the controversial Gorham Connector proposal is dead was soundly rejected by the Legislature’s transportation committee this week. LD 1020 would repeal 2017 legislation that directed the Maine Turnpike Authority to plan and build a toll highway extension from South Portland, through Scarborough and Westbrook, to Gorham. The bill follows the authority’s announcement in March that it enlisted the Maine Department of Transportation to consider alternative solutions to commuter traffic congestion west of Portland. Neither agency has said the connector proposal has been dropped entirely."
https://www.restore.org/maineenvironews/2025/5/9/bill-to-kill-gorham-connector-crashes-in-committee
#SaveTheFarms #SaveSmilingHillFarm #GorhamConnector #InducedSprawl #SaveRedBrook #Maine #InducedDemand #ProtectTheWetlands #BrookTrout #HuskyLine #RapidBusTransit #MainersForSmarterTransportation
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So, I heard back from #MDIFW about #EAB in our area. Apparently, my town is one that was recently identified to have Emerald Ash Borer outbreaks. They gave me information about treating the #GreenAsh trees (or taking them down), and an arborist friend of mine down the road was recommended to deal with infested trees. #MDOT may be responsible for taking down the ones by the road that are too far gone, but I'll let them know that there's someone nearby who they could hire to do that. I'll be talking to the neighbors who have the tree that might be saved about pesticide application. The #WhiteAsh tree by the #SacoRiver (which I don't think is infected), would be tricky to deal with, since pesticides could get into the river (though it's not like the Saco is potable water anyways -- but still. And it flows into the ocean). Anyhow, I have a plan of action. I'll provide updates on the trees as needed.
#MaineTrees #CitizenScience
#EmeraldAshBorer #SaveTheTrees #InvasiveSpecies #ProtectTheTrees #Stewardship #YorkCountyMaine -
So, I heard back from #MDIFW about #EAB in our area. Apparently, my town is one that was recently identified to have Emerald Ash Borer outbreaks. They gave me information about treating the #GreenAsh trees (or taking them down), and an arborist friend of mine down the road was recommended to deal with infested trees. #MDOT may be responsible for taking down the ones by the road that are too far gone, but I'll let them know that there's someone nearby who they could hire to do that. I'll be talking to the neighbors who have the tree that might be saved about pesticide application. The #WhiteAsh tree by the #SacoRiver (which I don't think is infected), would be tricky to deal with, since pesticides could get into the river (though it's not like the Saco is potable water anyways -- but still. And it flows into the ocean). Anyhow, I have a plan of action. I'll provide updates on the trees as needed.
#MaineTrees #CitizenScience
#EmeraldAshBorer #SaveTheTrees #InvasiveSpecies #ProtectTheTrees #Stewardship #YorkCountyMaine -
So, I heard back from #MDIFW about #EAB in our area. Apparently, my town is one that was recently identified to have Emerald Ash Borer outbreaks. They gave me information about treating the #GreenAsh trees (or taking them down), and an arborist friend of mine down the road was recommended to deal with infested trees. #MDOT may be responsible for taking down the ones by the road that are too far gone, but I'll let them know that there's someone nearby who they could hire to do that. I'll be talking to the neighbors who have the tree that might be saved about pesticide application. The #WhiteAsh tree by the #SacoRiver (which I don't think is infected), would be tricky to deal with, since pesticides could get into the river (though it's not like the Saco is potable water anyways -- but still. And it flows into the ocean). Anyhow, I have a plan of action. I'll provide updates on the trees as needed.
#MaineTrees #CitizenScience
#EmeraldAshBorer #SaveTheTrees #InvasiveSpecies #ProtectTheTrees #Stewardship #YorkCountyMaine -
So, I heard back from #MDIFW about #EAB in our area. Apparently, my town is one that was recently identified to have Emerald Ash Borer outbreaks. They gave me information about treating the #GreenAsh trees (or taking them down), and an arborist friend of mine down the road was recommended to deal with infested trees. #MDOT may be responsible for taking down the ones by the road that are too far gone, but I'll let them know that there's someone nearby who they could hire to do that. I'll be talking to the neighbors who have the tree that might be saved about pesticide application. The #WhiteAsh tree by the #SacoRiver (which I don't think is infected), would be tricky to deal with, since pesticides could get into the river (though it's not like the Saco is potable water anyways -- but still. And it flows into the ocean). Anyhow, I have a plan of action. I'll provide updates on the trees as needed.
#MaineTrees #CitizenScience
#EmeraldAshBorer #SaveTheTrees #InvasiveSpecies #ProtectTheTrees #Stewardship #YorkCountyMaine -
So, I heard back from #MDIFW about #EAB in our area. Apparently, my town is one that was recently identified to have Emerald Ash Borer outbreaks. They gave me information about treating the #GreenAsh trees (or taking them down), and an arborist friend of mine down the road was recommended to deal with infested trees. #MDOT may be responsible for taking down the ones by the road that are too far gone, but I'll let them know that there's someone nearby who they could hire to do that. I'll be talking to the neighbors who have the tree that might be saved about pesticide application. The #WhiteAsh tree by the #SacoRiver (which I don't think is infected), would be tricky to deal with, since pesticides could get into the river (though it's not like the Saco is potable water anyways -- but still. And it flows into the ocean). Anyhow, I have a plan of action. I'll provide updates on the trees as needed.
#MaineTrees #CitizenScience
#EmeraldAshBorer #SaveTheTrees #InvasiveSpecies #ProtectTheTrees #Stewardship #YorkCountyMaine -
🔌🚘🔌
#MDOT is seeking your input 🗣️for #Maryland’s Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Plan (ZEVIP).
⚠️The survey will remain open until this Friday, June 13, 2025⚠️
👨💻 Survey🔗 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JSRYNJX #Maryland #EVCars #EVCharging #MDCommuters #Commuting #MontgomeryCountyMD #survey #Transit -
When it comes to standing up to #Trump, I laud #Maine Governor #JanetMills. But when it comes to #Wabanaki #Sovereignty, building wind terminals on undeveloped islands (#SearsIsland / #Wahsumkik ), destroying untouched forests to supply #WesternMass with electricity, or building highways through farmland (#MDOT), we definitely DO NOT always see eye-to-eye!
Governor opposed to latest change to #SettlementAct backed by #WabanakiNations
by Emma Davis
Wed, April 9, 2025"Discussion of legislation to afford the Wabanaki Nations more authority over their land revealed that Gov. Janet Mills does not support the change, presenting a steep path for a plan that otherwise has bipartisan support.
"After not testifying during the public hearing last week, the governor’s counsel, Jerry Reid, told the Judiciary Committee on Wednesday that Mills’ concerns stem from the inability to predict the future needs of state government, an issue also raised in written testimony from the #MaineDepartmentOfTransportation, which was made available after the hearing.
"When pressed by committee members, Reid said he doesn’t have a specific example of an infrastructure project that would warrant seizing tribal land but that, 'We need to write the law mindful of the potential for problems.'
"While Reid and Wabanaki leaders noted that progress has and continues to be made to improve the relationship between the state and Wabanaki Nations, Reid added, 'the fact that we have such a good relationship right now might not always be true.'
"The U.S. government can seize private property for public use, a principle known as eminent domain, however that authority is restricted by the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which requires just compensation for land taken, as well as some federal laws.
"The 1834 federal Indian Nonintercourse Act prohibited land transactions with tribes unless authorized by Congress. However, the 1980 Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act specified that that federal law was not applicable to the #HoultonBand of #Maliseet Indians, the #PassamaquoddyTribe and the #PenobscotNation.
"This is the act that has overall resulted in the Tribes being treated more akin to #municipalities than #SovereignNations. So far, sweeping changes to the act have failed due to opposition from Mills, but the governor, lawmakers and Wabanaki leaders have successfully made some targeted adjustments, including expanding tribal authority to prosecute crimes last year.
"The legislation being considered this session, #LD958, would amend the Settlement Act to prohibit the state from exercising eminent domain on trust and reservation land, which is protected under federal law, though fee land — or private property for which the owner owns the title — would still be subject to the state taking.
"The bill would also amend the 2023 #MikmaqNationRestorationAct to make this change for the Mi’kmaq Nation, which wasn’t included in the Settlement Act.
"On Tuesday, the Taxation Committee unanimously voted in favor of a bill to ensure equal tax treatment among all of the Wabanaki Nations, which Mills supports. #LD982 would provide the #MikmaqNation the same rights to sales tax revenue on its land that the other three tribes of the Wabanaki Nations were granted in 2022 through an amendment to the Settlement Act.
State hasn’t exercised this authority in decades, but argues it’s necessary"The state hasn’t exercised eminent domain over #TribalLands since the #SettlementAct. However, testimony from Wabanaki leaders and state government officials underscore that it is a possibility."
Source:
https://www.yahoo.com/news/governor-opposed-latest-change-settlement-185134791.html#MaineSettlementAct #EminentDomain #LandTheft #FirstNations #WabanakiConfederancy
#MaineFirstNations #Maine #MainePol
#NativeAmericanNews #TribalSovereignty #SaveSmilingHillFarm #SaveTheForests #MainePol #IndigenousPeoplesDay -
Bills revive debate over #SearsIsland port plan
Maine Public | By Peter McGuire
Published March 12, 2025"Lawmakers heard more than five hours of testimony Wednesday from both sides of a debate over preserving Sears Island in the Town of #Searsport.
"A pair of bills from state representative Reagan Paul would extend a #ConservationEasement across the island and restore #SandDuneProtections in a 330-acre parcel set aside for development.
"The Winterport Republican said it's time to end decades of controversial port proposals for the island in the town of Searsport. The latest plan is a floating offshore wind port by the Maine Department of Transportation that has so far failed to attract federal funding.
"'And yet #MDOT refuses to face reality, doubling down on failure and proving this is not about offshore wind, it is about pushing #IndustrialDevelopment at any cost,' Paul told members of the legislature's Environment and Natural Resources Committee.
"Local #conservationists support the proposal and said the highest and best use of the island is as a wild area. Any commercial development, including the wind port, can be done at nearby #MackPoint, a fuel and materials terminal."
Read more:
https://www.mainepublic.org/climate/2025-03-12/bills-revive-debate-over-sears-island-port-plan
#SaveSearsIsland #ProtectNature #Maine #WindTurbines #WindPort #PenobscotBay #ProtectSearsIsland #ProtectTheForest #ProtectTheDunes #WindTerminal #SandDunes #ProtectWahsumkik #EndangeredSpecies -
@LukefromDC Both #MTA (Maine Turnpike Authority) and #MDOT (Maine Dept of Transportation) have a lot of palms to grease with regards to giving contractors work to build new highways through farms and woods, or develop undeveloped places. The former director of the MTA got in trouble for accepting bribes from contractors. I'm sure the culture hasn't changed though.
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For the past few years, I've had to dedicate time to fight STUPID SHIT here in #Maine. Two years ago, #PolandSpring / #BlueTriton / WhateverTheFuckThey'reCalledNow tried to double water extraction during a #Drought. Last year, #MaineTurnpikeAuthority wanted to put a highway through one of the last working farms in #GreaterPortlandMaine (#SmilingHillFarm). Now this year, #MDOT wants to build a replacement bridge over the #SacoRiver with NO PEDESTRIAN SIDEWALK! In an area with a library, an ice cream parlor, and hiking trails on both sides of the river! WTF is wrong with people! Well, #CorporateGreed is a big part of the problem. I'm sure MTA had the contractors salivating over the contracts they hoped to milk out of them!
#MainePolitics -
Update: The solution? A traffic light on the Buxton side of the bridge, and a wider bridge to accommodate bicycles and pedestrians. But still... Not ideal!
No rest for the wicked. Though I did take today off from getting worked up about my next local battle -- figuring out why #MDOT doesn't want a #pedestrian walkway on a new bridge over the #SacoRiver. Also, why isn't MDOT addressing the fact that cars, trucks and SUVs go way too fast on that stretch of #Route202 anyways, and it should be more #bicycle and #pedestrian friendly (considering there are hiking / biking trails on both sides of the river, an ice cream shop, a library, and a marijuana shop nearby).
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So, unfortunately, the town of #BuxtonMaine said "No," to the #PedestrianWalkway and the additional cost, and so did #HollisMaine (at #MDOT's urging). Having a separate pedestrian walkway on this bridge would make it safer for EVERYONE -- and a lot of pedestrians and bicyclists use the bridge, as it is the way to get from one track of preserved land to another, and also the areas where local teens swim! The traffic on #Route202 on either side of the bridge is always going too fast, and there's a lot of large trucks and SUVs. Widening the bridge is not enough! (And yes, speed limits should be strictly enforced in this area, which includes an ice cream stand and a local library)!
I should probably contact #MainersForSmarterTransportation and #BicycleCoalitionOfMaine and let them know what's going on...
Article from 2020, which shows the existing bridge and how much it's used by young people, as it is a popular spot in the summer!
Salmon Falls Bridge to be redesigned to deter jumping
The bridge between Buxton and Hollis has long been popular with youth who leap from it into the Saco River, but a planned upgrade should put a stop to that risky pastime and make it safer for all, the state says.by Robert Lowell
June 1, 2020
Original story:
https://www.pressherald.com/2020/06/01/salmon-falls-bridge-to-be-redesigned-to-deter-jumping/Archived version:
Hollis-Buxton, Route 202, Salmon Falls BridgeOn-Demand Formal Public Meeting for replacing the Salmon Falls Bridge on Route 2020 over the Saco River at the Hollis-Buxton town line
"The Scope of Work for this project consists of a full replacement of the Salmon Falls Bridge. The preliminary scope of work that was presented at the preliminary public meeting in 2019 consisted of a deck and superstructure replacement while leaving the substructure (piers and abutments) in place since that component is in fair condition as opposed to the deck and superstructure, which are both in poor condition. After further design review, it was determined that a full replacement is a better and more cost-effective option in the long term, with reduced maintenance costs and an overall longer lifespan. The new bridge will have 5' shoulders, which accomplishes the request as noted at the preliminary meeting of providing for better bicyclist and pedestrian accommodations."
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/483457df232143ba94cdbf9fe8173724
Hollis-Buxton, Route 202, Salmon Falls Bridge
On-Demand Formal Public Meeting for replacing the Salmon Falls Bridge on Route 2020 over the Saco River at the Hollis-Buxton town line
"The Scope of Work for this project consists of a full replacement of the Salmon Falls Bridge. The preliminary scope of work that was presented at the preliminary public meeting in 2019 consisted of a deck and superstructure replacement while leaving the substructure (piers and abutments) in place since that component is in fair condition as opposed to the deck and superstructure, which are both in poor condition. After further design review, it was determined that a full replacement is a better and more cost-effective option in the long term, with reduced maintenance costs and an overall longer lifespan. The new bridge will have 5' shoulders, which accomplishes the request as noted at the preliminary meeting of providing for better bicyclist and pedestrian accommodations."
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/483457df232143ba94cdbf9fe8173724
Pedestrian Safety Guide and Countermeasure Selection System
Guidelines/Priorities for Sidewalks and Walkways
Introduction"A 1.5-m- (5-ft-) wide shoulder is acceptable for pedestrians along low-volume roads"
Route 202 is NOT a low-volume road, by any means!
http://www.pedbikesafe.org/PEDSAFE/resources_guidelines_sidwalkswalkways.cfm
#IndianCellarPreserve #LandTrust #HikingTrails #SacoRiver #SalmonFalls #MaineDOT #Maine #SouthernMaine #SalmonFallsBridge
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#SearsIsland Study Area
#Wetland Delineation#Photographs: August & September, 2023
Sears Island
Searsport, Maine 04974#Nature #MDOT #MaineDOT #JanetMills #SaveTheWetlands #EndangeredSpecies #Wahsumkik #Searsport
#WindTurbines #ProtectTheForest #ProtectTheDunes #SaveSearsIsland #OffshoreWindFarm #ProtectWahsumkik #ProtectNature #MackPoint -
What this article doesn't mention is all the other plans to develop #SearsIsland, that are contingent on #MDOT's and #GovernorJanetMills getting their way!
[Paywall] The plans for #Maine’s floating #WindPort, explained
May 31, 2024
Why Sears Island?
"This question remains a big sticking point for what appears to be a number of local residents, some environmental organizations and midcoast advocacy groups, and those who are simply opposed to offshore wind development entirely.
"They argue that industrialized #MackPoint in #SearsportMaine is the best place for a wind port.
"'There’s such a sensible alternative 800 yards away — a 105-year-old working port, with a terminal operator that is ready, willing and able to take on the project and not to jeopardize their other operations,' said #DavidItaliaander, a Searsport resident and board member for #FriendsOfSearsIsland. The group maintains the island’s vast network of trails.
"#SpragueEnergy owns Mack Point and appears to be making its own push to host the state’s wind port. The company has said that its existing #industrial #waterfront could be repurposed to support Maine’s plans. And Sprague said it has a new alternative plan that addresses some of the concerns the state has identified.
"But there is a coalition of other conservation organizations, labor groups, the Maine Chamber of Commerce and others that want to see Sears Island redeveloped as a wind port and support the state’s plan.
"Maine DOT already owns the land that it wants to develop. The state also says that Sears Island wouldn’t require dredging, but Sprague has said those requirements would be reduced under its new plan.
In the meantime, Italiaander and other Sears Island advocacy groups are poring through the details of DOT’s federal grant application."DOT, for example, has proposed relocating the Sears Island access road so it would cut through a corner of the #conservation area.
"That’s a concern, Italiaander said. Burns acknowledged that the land is protected and said the proposed road relocation is intended to better bifurcate the island into its two potential uses — port activity and recreation.
"The debate over Sears Island will ramp up in the coming weeks and months.
"Sprague Energy will host an event next month at the Mack Point terminal, where company leaders are expected to present their own alternative wind port design.
"And #MaineDOT is expected to release a much-anticipated analysis of alternative sites, which will include Mack Point."
#WindPort #GulfOfMaine #Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism #PenobscotBay #Maine #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik #CulturalGenocide #Greenwashing -
#MDOT Plans New #SearsIsland Road and Rail Access Corridor Through Current #ConservationLand
Published by
#allianceforsearsislandon May 23, 2024
"Can we hold the Maine Department of Transportation accountable for bull-dozing their way toward developing Sears Island and industrializing #PenobscotBay, along the way breaking promises, rewriting environmental protection law, changing the Sears Island conservation easement, withholding from the public important development costs and impacts and avoiding open, honest, transparent public involvement?
"We might be tempted to begin our list of facts illustrating MDOT’s abuse of authority and public trust with the illegal filling of Sears Island #wetlands and construction of the causeway, apparently in violation of its permit, in the 1980’s. But let’s keep to the more recent offshore wind record of broken promises and undisclosed development activity.
"During the Governor’s announcement in February, [#GovJanetMills] claimed, without supporting data, that Sears Island development 'will cost less' and 'is expected to result in less environmental harm' than would development of a state-owned but privately operated offshore wind facility at Mack Point.
"The 'cost less' assertion raised major questions not yet answered in part because, a few months earlier, at the last OSWPAG meeting, we were told, 'The total project cost for construction is very similar for both MP ($460 Million Total Project Cost) and SI ($470 Million Total Project Cost).'
"Sears Island’s current #undeveloped, natural condition, provides important ecological services to the region and state, especially for fisheries, #CarbonSequestration and publicly accessible recreation. #MackPoint does not provide these ecological services. According to a reliable source, every acre of intact Sears Island forest locks up between 80 and 100 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year – #CO2 that cannot harm our #climate.
"Developing Sears Island proposes removing all vegetation and life from more than 100 acres on Sears Island, nearly one-third of which is existing or historical #wetland, and then harvesting 1.4 million cubic yards of soil to create an impermeable, nearly level work area. Doing so constitutes radical, permanent, irreparable ecological damage, forever eliminating current upland and associated marine #environmental benefits. This exactly flips an appropriate climate-change response and dramatically undermines any claim that developing Sears Island instead of Mack Point represents the least environmentally damaging choice.
Broken Promises
"In 2007, the state promised to choose #MackPoint as the preferred location for future marine transportation development. The Sears Island agreement, signed by 38 stakeholders including the Maine Department of Transportation, and adopted as state policy by then-Governor Baldacci and the State of Maine’s Joint Standing Committee on Transportation, says: 'Mack Point shall be given preference as an alternative to port development on Sears Island.'
"The Sears Island agreement also committed the State of Maine from ever harvesting soil from the island. Ever. Not one cubic yard of soil would be harvested and certainly not 1.4 million cubic yards of soil!
Sadly, the Governor’s announcement and subsequent actions taken by MDOT toward developing Sears Island render the promises made in 2007 by our government worthless.
Broken Laws
"But highly questionable governmental actions in pursuit of developing Sears Island continue. In March this year the Governor brought forward the sand dune bill that allows violation of sand #dune system protections on Sears Island and creates a dangerous threat in the future for any environmental law that may interfere with MDOT development aspirations. Though initially failing to pass in the House, the bill eventually became law after strong political pressure.
New Sears Island Road and Rail Corridor
"And now we come to the MDOT application for a federal grant specifically to develop Sears Island. Nestled within several documents associated with the grant application is page 2 of a two-drawing file titled, Sears Island Wind Port Concept Drawing 2024-04-29, copy attached or available at https://www.maine.gov/mdot/grants/infra/.
"The illustration depicts a new 'heavy load' access road and rail corridor as part of Sears Island development plans for the first time, at least in public.
"As proposed, the new approximately 2,300-foot-long rail and road access corridor passes through a thickly wooded portion of the island, crossing at least two perennial streams and disturbing additional wetlands along the way. Assuming a 100-foot width, the corridor would destroy more than 5.25 acres of intact natural landscape, in addition to the more than 100-acre upland ecological destruction at the facility site proper.
"Adding insult to injury, the proposed new road and rail corridor requires changing the conservation easement boundary in the vicinity.
"#FriendsOfSearsIsland Vice President Rolf Olsen received confirmation of the new road and rail access plan from Kay Rand in response to his query. Rand also substantiated that the new access corridor would cross a portion of the conservation parcel and necessitate a change in that parcel’s boundary.
"According to budget information included with the grant application, clearing, grubbing, excavation and borrow, grading, drainage, erosion control, paving and other work related to this access corridor will add $8 million to the cost of developing Sears Island. Mack Point already provides both a heavy load road and rail.
"The new Sears Island rail and road access corridor presents yet another failure by MDOT to incorporate an honest understanding of climate change into decision-making. As MDOT fiddles for federal grant money to pursue a mega facility on Sears Island, the Earth tilts toward catastrophic climate change.
"I will venture the opinion that, had the #MillsAdministration and MDOT focused offshore wind port research on Mack Point as promised in March 2020 (see attached press release), as promised in the Sears Island Planning Initiative, and as the historical record certainly suggests is the rational approach, including deeply exploring development possibilities there with #SpragueEnergy, they might already have secured permits and seen construction begun.
#Accountability Now"End the insulting double-speak. With honor and integrity, not intrigue and obfuscation, open-up and bring the full spectrum of facts to this decision. Accountability now!"
Steve Miller
#WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #AllianceForSearsIsland #ProtectWahsumkik #MackPoint #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #GovernorJanetMills #WabanakiAlliance #CulturalGenocide #EnvironmentalRacism #PenobscotNation #Passamaquoddy #ProtectTheForest #CorporateColonialism #Wassumkeag -
OpEd: Opposing wind port on #SearsIsland protects #wildlife
"I strongly oppose the decision by Gov. Mills and the Maine Department of Transportation to locate a wind port on Sears Island in Waldo County. This is wrongly being touted as the least environmentally harmful location for a port, largely based on its requiring less dredging to establish access than using an available site at nearby Mack Point.
Placing a port on Sears Island would destroy upwards of 100 acres of woodland and a sand dune habitat and be very harmful to the thousands of migrant birds that pass through the island. Mack Point is already highly industrialized and offers little benefit to birds and other wildlife. Claiming that Sears Island is the least environmentally harmful is simply inaccurate.
One of the unmentioned reasons for the state’s desire to develop Sears Island is likely that it offers room for future port expansion, whether that be for assembling wind towers or anything else #MDOT wishes to do. MDOT controls 300 acres on the island and will surely find reasons to expand once it establishes a foothold.
"Sears island is highly important to birds and is one of the premier locations in the state for observing spring and fall migrant songbirds. It is sad that some of the state’s largest environmental organizations have not taken a firm stance against developing the island. Check out the Alliance for Sears Island website for more information, and I urge you to contact your state legislators and ask them to oppose a port on Sears Island."
John Wyatt
Winterporthttps://allianceforsearsisland.org/
#Maine #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #GovernorJanetMills #ProtectTheForest #Wassumkeag #AllianceForSearsIsland #WednesdaysForWildlife -
Just like when the #Maine public voted AGAINST the #CMPCorridor through the #NorthWoods!
Public feedback process for decision on #OffshoreWind port a charade, #environmentalists claim
State officials are accused of long favoring #SearsIsland, the largest undeveloped island in #PenobscotBay, as the future site of the port.
Author: Kate Cough of The Maine Monitor
Published: 12:51 PM EDT August 14, 2023PORTLAND, Maine — "Environmentalists are decrying a year-long process meant to gather public feedback on where to build a #deepwater offshore wind port, calling it a 'charade.'
"They say state officials failed to adequately engage the public or #tribal communities and effectively decided where to construct the port long before the process began.
"The Maine Department of Transportation [#MDOT]has been making an internal case for Sears Island while 'giving an illusion of an impartial analysis of port possibilities to the public,' said #MattCannon, the state conservation and energy director for #SierraClubMaine, in comments at the final meeting of the Offshore Wind Port Advisory Group.
"'Some,' he said, 'see it as a breach of public trust.'
"State officials have said they’re considering several locations for the 100-acre port, including #Eastport, #MackPoint and Sears Island, and don’t expect to choose a final location until next year. The officials insist they have not made a final decision.
"But participants in the process, which began in May 2022, say the state has long advocated for Sears Island, the largest #undeveloped island in Penobscot Bay.
"They believe officials have not seriously considered other options for the port, which would be the staging area for equipment needed to build and maintain #Windturbines in federal waters in the #GulfOfMaine.
"Those suspicions hardened after documents released via a public records request submitted by #IslesboroIslandsTrust earlier this year revealed internal discussions seeming to indicate an official preference for the island. #FriendsOfSearsIsland manages the #trails on the conserved portion of the island.
"The documents included a '#Stakeholder Management Plan' written by state-hired consultant Kay Rand. The document said the goals were, in part, to 'develop and execute a stakeholder outreach strategy that would enable #GovernorJanetMills to … announce a commitment to pursue development of Sears Island as the #RenewableEnergy Port of the Northeast.'
"The document is dated Sept. 8, 2021 — eight months before the stakeholder group held its first meeting — and mentions pursuing Sears Island as the port at least four times."
#Environment #EndangeredSpecies #ProtectSearsIsland #WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #ProtectWahsumkik #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #WabanakiAlliance #Wassumkeag #CorporateColonialism -
#Maine applies for federal funds to build wind port on #SearsIsland
"Sears Island as DOT's preferred site for an offshore wind port has sparked a heated debate among some local residents, state lawmakers and others who argue the industrialized #MackPoint should be the location of #Maine's proposed #WindHub."
Maine Public | By Nicole Ogrysko
Published May 17, 2024
"The Maine Department of Transportation (#MDOT) has applied for $456 million in federal funds so that it can begin constructing a floating offshore wind port on Sears Island.
"If approved, the federal grant would cover about two-thirds of the nearly $760 million that the state of Maine estimates it will need to build the port and a heavy-lift semi-submersible barge that's needed to launch the floating wind turbine foundations.
"The remaining funds would come from other federal and state grants and anticipated payments as areas are leased to wind developers in the coming years.
"The department said there are currently no other sites being considered on the East Coast that could support the construction and deployment of floating wind turbines near the eight lease areas that the federal government recently identified as potential sites for offshore wind in the Gulf of Maine.
"According to a timeline included in a lengthy list of project materials released Friday afternoon, DOT said it will spend the next 18 months applying for permits for the wind port through the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (#MaineDEP) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
"If everything is approved, the state estimates wind port construction starting in 2027 and wrapping up in 2029."
#ProtectWahsumkik #JanetMills #Wahsumkik #WabanakiAlliance #SandDune #Searsport #EndangeredSpecies #CulturalGenocide #EnvironmentalRacism #ProtectTheDunes
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When Pretzel Logic Twists No to Mack Point Into “Yes” to Forward-thinking Climate Projects
#ProtectWahsumkik and volunteers associated with #SierraClub #Maine Chapter, as well as many Alliance allies and many of you reading this, performed an incredible job exposing #LD2266’s blatant abuse of governmental authority and supporting protection of critical ecological features on Sears Island.
Published by
allianceforsearsisland
on April 26, 2024"For example, developing the offshore wind facility at #SearsIsland requires removing all vegetation and wildlife from some 75 or more upland acres, approximately 25% of which are significant freshwater #wetlands, recently mapped and documented by Maine Department of Transportation’s (#MDOT) consultants, that provide nutrients and habitat for both terrestrial and marine species. Developing the facility at #MackPoint requires no or extremely little loss of wetlands."
#WindTerminal #SandDunes
#Searsport #Wahsumkik
#EndangeredSpecies #ProtectTheDunes #GovernorJanetMills #WabanakiAlliance #CulturalGenocide #EnvironmentalRacism -
#Maine Voices: Nobody would benefit from the building of the #GorhamConnector
Transit-oriented urban design boosts economies, reduces emissions and provides public space; the only long-term result of the Gorham Connector will be #sprawl.
Posted September 29, 2023
By Jasper Curtis"If the Gorham Connector is constructed and put to use, everyone in the state will lose out in more ways than one.
First, there is the cost, up to $237 million. That’s a lot of money, and it’s on top of the $140 million already being spent on lane widening on Interstate 95. Spoiler alert, none of that money will relieve congestion. In fact, it will likely do the opposite, as proven time and time again in countless U.S. cities. On top of the $340 million total, there is the price of owning a car, which costs the average American $11,000 per year. New car prices are nearing $50,000. None of this is affordable to everyday Mainers. It’s time the state takes these costs seriously, instead of burdening taxpayers with more."Increased road capacity simply leads to more cars on the roads and does not reduce the time spent in traffic. It is a case of #InducedDemand, where wider roads encourage more driving, more vehicles then fill the roads and the public is asked to fund another road- widening project. The cycle repeats itself to extremes, such as the 26-lane #KatyFreeway outside Houston, Texas, which did not solve traffic. St. Louis, Missouri, home to the most highway square mileage per capita in the country, has yet to cease traffic. Here we are again, however, being asked to fork over our tax dollars to an inefficient, ineffective solution to a problem that the state created with poor #UrbanPlanning and shortsighted #infrastructure projects.
"Light #PassengerRail from #WestbrookMaine to #PortlandMaine would cost an estimated $75 million. That’s about $19 million per mile. If a similar cost-per-mile ratio were to be applied to the #GorhamConnector, the project would total $115 million. (Even if the cost-per-mile ratio were double the estimated cost of the Westbrook-to-Portland connection, building rail along the proposed Gorham Connector route would still save $7 million.) From Gorham to Portland, the cost of rail would be almost $30 million cheaper than the Gorham Connector, which reaches only to the Maine Mall in South Portland.
"Rail helps not only commuters and students, but also those who require vehicles for work, because, unlike road widening, public transit reduces the number of vehicles on the road. Driving a work truck on public roads can be infuriating during peak traffic; I know because I have done so. The same goes for driving in an emergency. Rail would help these alleviate these problems; the Gorham Connector would not.
While less quantitative than the previous points, #Maine must still be conscious of its #environmental and social goals. The Maine Department of Transportation (#MDOT) should keep these in mind before it decides its best solution to traffic is to encourage more internal combustion engines. Part of what makes Maine so special to residents is the nature around us. Let’s not wreck it for the sake of one more lane. Maine’s population is the oldest in the nation, and seniors deserve to have safe travel options."Transit-oriented urban design boosts economies, reduces emissions and provides public space. There will be no long-term benefit from the Gorham Connector, only sprawl. It’s that simple. Honest Maine people work hard for their paychecks – they deserve infrastructure that uses their tax dollars with vision and purpose, not another wasteful, #pollution-filled project."
https://www.pressherald.com/2023/09/29/maine-voices-the-gorham-connector-is-a-bad-idea-in-more-ways- than-one
#GorhamSpur #SaveSmilingHillFarm
#SaveTheForest #Woodlands #Meadows #EnvironmentalImpact #GorhamConnector #SaveRedBrook #GreaterPortlandMaine #LightRail #BikeLanes #BusService #MTA #ProtectFarmland #LessCars #WorkingFarms #RapidTransit -
🚌 Reminder🚌
WMATA, MDOT, and MCDOT are hosting a virtual project update meeting on the Georgia Avenue Tactical Bus Lane Project.Date: Thursday, November 9, 2023
From: 6:30PM – 7:30PMRegistration is required to participate▶️ https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/2209085321102399830
#montgomerycountymd #bus #wmata #buslanes #maryland #transit #transitTooter #silverspringmd #mdot #meeting #mcdotnow -
Grand Rapids area road widening project delayed to 2026, MDOT says
from MLive.com
by Bradley Massman -
‘A wall through Ann Arbor.’ City Council takes stance against MDOT project
from MLive.com
by Ryan Stanton -
Just got back from #MDOT's #RedLine Open House. Had a lot of interesting conversations about their plans, wrote feedback, got interviewed on my way out for my opinions. I made a point of mentioning that I'd biked 90 minutes to get there, and it was *still* faster than taking the bus.
There's still one more planning session tomorrow!
https://redlinemaryland.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/MTA_REDLINE-Flyer_071823_B.pdf
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So, rather than consider #LightRail or more #Bike friendly options (or better yet, commuter rail that allows bikes), it seems that southern #Maine / #GreaterPortland / #MDOT is hot on putting in a highway bypass that will ruin #forested and #agricultural land, and encouraging more #sprawl! ENOUGH! Good for #PortlandMaine for taking a stand! #LessCars #MoreBikes
Portland City Council takes stand against Gorham Connector
Peter McGuire, Portland Press Herald, Maine
July 15, 2022"The Portland City Council this week asked the Maine Turnpike Authority to halt work on a four-lane toll highway to communities west of the city, arguing that the project known as the Gorham Connector is incompatible with local and state plans to combat climate change and that planners should consider reducing rush-hour traffic with rapid transit."
https://news.yahoo.com/portland-city-council-takes-stand-080400605.html