Committee endorses mayoral letter to support Libbytown Safe Streets for All grant application

The Transportation & Sustainability Committee unanimously endorsed a request that the mayor sign a letter supporting a Safe Streets for All grant application for the Libbytown Safety & Accessibility Project.

Kevin Kraft, the city’s planning director, told the committee the project — which has been in planning since 2009 and advanced in coordination with MaineDOT — aims to convert Congress Street and Park Avenue to two‑way operation, install a roundabout, improve ADA sidewalks, add dedicated bike facilities and include stormwater resiliency measures. Kraft said the Safe Streets for All application is due May 26 and that the city seeks the committee’s endorsement to include a mayoral letter in the submission.

Kraft said the city has gathered broad community support, noting more than 20 letters of endorsement from neighborhood associations and institutions including Maine Medical Center and Northern Light Mercy. Evan Lamar, who identified himself as a Libbytown resident and Casco Bay Trail board member, told the committee he strongly supports the project because it would expand safe routes for people who bike and walk.

A committee member moved to recommend that the mayor sign the letter of support; the motion was seconded and recorded votes were in favor. Staff said, if awarded, the grant would fund final design and construction for the Libbytown improvements.

The city’s application materials and the committee packet provide maps and prior planning history for the project; staff said the grant would restore momentum after a previously rescinded federal grant and the city will continue to coordinate with MaineDOT and neighborhood partners.