Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Community Benefits topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Local leaders say trail closes gap that supports commuting, recreation and habitat viewing
Summary
Scarborough and South Portland leaders said the new Eastern Trail section will support safe commuting, recreation, wildlife viewing (UNE identified over 60 species in the marsh) and stronger regional connections between neighborhoods and schools.
Corey Fellows, chair (Scarborough), and Elise Tifton, mayor (South Portland), stressed the trail's value beyond recreation: connecting neighborhoods, supporting active travel to schools and creating opportunities for wildlife viewing. Fellows cited a UNE survey that identified "over 60 species of wildlife" in the marsh that the trail crosses and described the corridor as an 'off-road artery' some residents use to commute.
Tifton said the project removes a missing link and will provide safer places for walkers, runners and bicyclists. Both leaders framed the segment as part of a broader regional vision that benefits public health, local business and community cohesion.
