Cumberland County to spend $4.5 million for emergency housing and housing security efforts
The News: Cumberland County Commissioners last month voted to commit $3 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds toward the construction of a new homeless shelter and service center in Portland, and $1.5 million in ARPA funds toward the construction of a new single adult and family shelter in Brunswick.

The plan: Both shelters will incorporate wraparound services for residents, improving quality of service and outcomes for people working to secure permanent housing.

Lakes Region study: The County is partnering with Tedford Housing to conduct a $107,000 study of people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity in the Lakes Region, including Baldwin, Casco, Bridgton, Harrison, Naples, Raymond and Sebago. Tedford Housing will perform a needs assessment, conduct a feasibility study and make recommendations for programs and services that address the Lake Region's unique needs.

Why it matters: Homelessness is a regional issue that should be addressed comprehensively, and these investments are a huge step towards achieving that goal.
Finding funding for shovel-ready/worthy projects
The News: GPCOG asked the region to identify shovel-ready and shovel-worthy projects. Now, with the passage of the bipartisan infrastructure package, we're exploring how to make these projects a reality.

GPCOG received 98 submissions through a "call for projects." We evaluated potential opportunities for bundling them. Bundling projects can provide opportunities for cooperative purchasing, thereby making projects more cost-effective and increasing the chances they'll be competitive for larger-scale funding opportunities.

Why it matters: Our region must be organized, ambitious and strategic to compete for additional funding under the new infrastructure package.

New study to examine rapid transit along
Portland - Westbrook - Gorham corridor
The News: We’re evaluating rapid transit alternatives along the Portland - Westbrook - Gorham corridor.

What is rapid transit? A rapid transit route is a fixed route that includes features that improve the speed, capacity, reliability and quality of the service. Rapid transit does not necessarily mean rail. A bus-based system is considered rapid transit if it includes features that allow it to deliver fast and efficient service, like dedicated lanes, traffic signal priority, off-board fare collection and elevated platforms.

The timeline: We're seeking a consultant and have advertised a request for proposals. The bid period ends on Jan. 7. The study is anticipated to take 12-18 months and will include a strong technical and environmental analysis and a robust public engagement strategy to evaluate alternatives.

Why it matters: Rapid transit can help reduce traffic congestion and associated emissions, improve access to opportunity and provide a competitive and reliable service, particularly for those without access to personal vehicles.

Meet our community transportation leaders!
The News: The incoming class of Community Transportation Leaders begins the first of five training sessions this Friday.

Who are they? Community Transportation Leaders are people from underrepresented communities who work with decision-makers to participate in transportation planning.

Why it matters: The program enables decision-makers to hear directly from participants about their transportation needs and experiences.

We're looking for new talent to help our region!
The News: We're looking for talented people who are committed to helping our region adapt and thrive in a world that is quickly changing. We have two open positions: Community Engagement Manager and Senior Economic Development Manager. If you know people who share our passion, please help us get the word out.

SIGN UP FOR NOTIFICATIONS
Greater Portland Council of Governments (GPCOG)
970 Baxter Boulevard
Suite 201
Portland, ME 04103
Phone: 207-774-9891
Connect with us