MAINE, USA — To keep up with Maine's aging infrastructure, the Department of Transportation unveiled its new $4.74 billion dollar "Work Force Plan" for the upcoming three years.
The biggest estimated value yet, DOT Commissioner Bruce Van Note explained that the funding backing this year's goals is now able to give much-needed flexibility thanks to a recent Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
"We got good at what I call MacGyver mode... just kind of holding it all together," Van Note said. "But now we can flip, turn the corner, and [go] from making do to making progress."
With the available funding, close to 60 percent will go towards major bridge and highway investments from now through 2026.
In addition, an expansive list of state-wide transportation operations will also benefit, from aviation, railway, ferry, and public transit projects. To build up surrounding businesses, close to $165 million is expected to reach marine infrastructure such as the International Marine Terminal in Portland.
With the major investments, the Maine State Chamber of Commerce explains that it not only improves residents' commutes, but can also trickle down into the business and tourism sector.
"It's fundamental for the business community to have reliable, efficient transportation," President Patrick Woodcock said. "Our membership relies on this infrastructure to connect businesses goods across the globe and actually get their products there safely, reliably, and ultimately affordability to customers."
For example, DOT's Village Partnership Initiative will also be getting a boost from the work plan. Towns like Sanford and Windham will start to see infrastructure projects with its roads to better support downtown businesses.
"It's exciting and uplifting that we don't have to focus on just 'you can't get there from here.' It's making the here and there a place you want to be," Van Note added about the work plan.