August 1, 2024 — Maine Governor Mills announced $21.2 million in resilience grants for 68 working waterfronts damaged by winter storms. The Working Waterfront Resilience Grant Program funding stems from $60 million in recovery funds from the Maine Legislature following the December and January storms. The funding was approved on April 18, allocating direct funds to working waterfront communities, underlining their importance in the state.
“Working waterfronts are a cornerstone of our coastal communities and our economy, and last winter’s devastating storm demonstrated just how vulnerable they are to extreme weather and climate change,” said Governor Mills. “These grants will help rebuild working waterfronts, so they are able to better withstand future storms, protecting access to the water now and for generations to come.”
The recovery funds are the single largest investment in storm recovery by any administration in Maine’s history. The 68 working waterfront projects set to receive grant funds represent a range of needs. According to the release from Gov. Mills’ office, the needs include reconstructing and improving damaged wharves and piers, rebuilding and restoring key support buildings such as bait sheds, and repairing and upgrading fuel and electrical systems. A list of the preliminarily approved applicants and funding can be found here.
Read the full story at National Fisherman