KENNEBUNKPORT, Maine — As the state looks to upgrade coastline infrastructure, making it more resilient against extreme weather events, state and local leaders are expected to highlight the completion of one project on Monday.
Governor Janet Mills and other state and local officials are scheduled to celebrate the upgrades made to the causeway that connects Cape Porpoise to Bickford Island which is home to Kennebunkport's only commercial pier which is used by more than 50 commercial fishing vessels, according to the town.
The causeway experienced extensive flooding in the past, during king tide and storm surges which forced it to close frequently.
According to the Governor's office, The 'Pier Road Resiliency Project' was funded by a $2.585 million grant through the Maine Infrastructure Adaptation Fund, which is funded by the Governor's Jobs and Recovery Plan. The causeway was lifted by four feet to help protect stormwater infrastructure and other structures to maintain access for fishermen, residents, and emergency vehicles during storm events.
This effort is one example of Maine communities utilizing state funds to build up infrastructure. In May, Mills established the Infrastructure Rebuilding and Resilience Commission which is tasked with developing the state's first long-term infrastructure plan to ensure cities and towns are prepared for future storms.
Governor Mills, Department of Transportation Commissioner Bruce Van Note, and Kennebunkport Town Manager Laurie Smith are expected to speak at the event scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. Monday.
This story will be updated.