SENATE OVERWHELMINGLY PASSES MEASURE AIMED AT GROWING MAINE’S DOWNTOWNS

Bill to invest in Maine’s downtowns

AUGUSTA—Earlier this morning, the Senate passed a measure to strengthen and grow Maine’s downtowns and Main Streets by a vote of 34-1.

“Our downtowns are key components of our economy, our way of life, and our community,” said Senator Seth Goodall of Richmond, the sponsor of the measure. “Many of our friends and neighbors work and run their businesses in our downtowns, and this bill will have a direct, positive impact on small businesses. It is pro-jobs, pro-community, and will provide a great economic investment.”

During the public hearing before the Joint Select Committee on Maine’s Workforce and Economic Future, a dozen people testified in support of the bill, which will allocate $100,000 to the Maine Downtown Center.

Established in 1999, the Maine Downtown Center began with four communities as a way to encourage downtown revitalization. It now includes 30 communities and hosts popular programs like the Main Street Maine program, the Maine Downtown Network, Green Downtowns, and Healthy Maine Streets.

“There’s no such thing as a great community that doesn’t have a great downtown–it’s what’s unique about our communities,” said Senator Roger Katz of Augusta. “Downtowns give towns and cities a sense of community, and provide an economic engine for the creative economy. Investing in our downtowns is a wise and targeted investment. Passing this measure will make what’s special about Maine more special.”

Analysis by the Maine Downtown Center shows that for every $1 spent on downtowns, there is $25.43 in reinvestment.

Additionally, according to reports by Main Street Maine communities from 2002—2012, the total amount of reinvestment topped $169.7 million in public and private dollars; a net gain of 269 new businesses; a net gain of 1,291 jobs; and, more than 600 buildings rehabilitated or improved.

“When people ask me, what is so special about Ellsworth, the first thing that comes to mind is our downtown. Our city feels like a community,” said Senator Brian Langley of Ellsworth.

The bill, LD 1172, “An Act to Support the Maine Downtown Center,” faces additional votes in the Senate and the House.

###