Sanford is already a great place to raise a family and start a business, and as a regional service center, the city provides many shopping and dining options for the surrounding communities. Thanks to a $25 million grant that was recently secured by U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, our city is excited to build on this success.

Over the past several years, municipal staff developed a comprehensive plan to modernize downtown infrastructure. It included:

1. Improving sidewalks, streetlights, parking and high-speed internet access on Main Street.

2. Expanding the walkway along Number One Pond, creating a promenade that connects to a 45-mile bike and pedestrian trail network.

3. Reconstructing several roads and intersections to increase safety, preserve unique architecture and strengthen connectivity to downtown businesses.

4. Constructing a new park-and-ride facility with EV charging stations that will help employees reach Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and other businesses.

We approached Sen. Collins for help with this project. As a leader of the Transportation and Housing Appropriations Subcommittee, she was instrumental in making our vision a reality. She championed our application to the U.S. Department of Transportation, and last week, she shared with us the fantastic news that our application was selected.

The RAISE grant program is highly competitive, which is why we are especially grateful for Sen. Collins’ strong advocacy. We look forward to commencing this project to enhance residents’ quality of life; improve access to jobs and recreational opportunities; support our small businesses, and attract new employers, commercial and residential development!

Steve Buck
city manager
Sanford