Saco CVS Proposal Divides Community

The Press Herald reports on a debate in Saco over a proposed CVS. The lesson here is that zoning and land use ordinances should be accompanied by build-out models.

Alternate Parking

The Press Herald reports on a proposal to allow developers to pay a fee in lieu of creating parking spaces. The fees would fund transportation improvements. Reader comments are critical, and there is a lot of call for more and cheaper parking- giving weight to the observation that free parking is like free beer, there's never enough.

Main Street Competes

The Press Herald has a story on Bath's downtown. Local business opposition saved its historic structures from urban renewal, attention to design details have invested in improved on what was preserved, and economic development efforts have focused on growing local businesses rather than attracting national chains and franchises.

Riverdam Revived?

The Journal Tribune reports that the renovation of one of the former Riverdam mill complex buildings in Biddeford may be back on track for a construction start.

Portland's Housing Preservation Ordinance

The Portland Press Herald ran a story about Portland's ordinance that charges property owners $57,800 per unit to fund the replacement of housing units taken out of service. The article raises more questions than it answers and buried in the comments are a few good ones.

Habitat Builds Green

The Portland Press Herald has a story about Habitat for Humanity's green subdivision in North Deering- 1300 - 1700 sf LEED Gold Certified homes.

$73M Arena and Civic Center in Bangor

The Bangor Daily News reports that the Bangor is pursuing a $73 million arena and civic center project.