More federal transit funding heading to our region
The news: The Federal Transit Administration just published its fiscal year 2022 apportionments showing an increase of $8 million in funding for transit in our region.

In addition to these funds, the region's transit agencies received $8 million in federal relief funding for operating assistance and transit improvements, including reduced travel times, enhanced frequency and reduced wait times. All seven transit providers in our region are eligible for a portion of the funding.

Why this matters: These new improvements will attract new people to public transportation and help reverse the drop off in customers that agencies experienced during the pandemic.

PACTS issues a "call for projects"

The news: We're issuing a “Call for Projects” for inclusion in the Connect 2045 Long-Range Transportation Plan.
 
Why this matters: Federal regulations require that long-range transportation plans include a list of regionally significant projects within our anticipated financial means. This way, our region is increasingly prepared to take advantage of discretionary grant opportunities, particularly those found in the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 
 
Submitting a proposal is the first step in getting a project included in the plan. We will score the projects based on how well they address the region's transportation needs and align with the Connect 2045 vision and goals and relevant state and federal policy directives. 

Deadline: 5 p.m. June 17

Creating transitional housing for asylum seekers
The news: We're working on finding creative solutions to help asylum seekers find safe, temporary housing. The current system of housing families in hotels is too expensive and not sustainable.

Why this matters: We have an opportunity to resettle new families today and benefit from their contributions to our communities and our workforce for a lifetime. Maine needs workers, and our communities need younger people. 


State Office of Tourism to hold
Portland listening session on May 10
The news: The Maine Office of Tourism is traveling throughout the state listening to tourism industry stakeholders as it develops a state-wide Tourism Master Plan. They will be at the Abromson Community Education Center at the University of Southern Maine from 9 a.m. to noon on May 10. 

Do you use transit? We need your ideas!
The news: If you ride a bus, ferry, or train in the Greater Portland area, then we want your feedback! The Transit Together team has assessed every transit route in our region and identified strengths, weaknesses, and improvement opportunities.

Why this matters: The Transit Together study will identify opportunities for increased coordination and integration among the seven public transit providers in our region. Your feedback will help the team develop a plan that will improve the experience of current riders, attract new riders, and make the system more effective and efficient.

Free soil lead tests available for gardeners
The news: The Cumberland County Soil & Water Conservation District is providing home gardeners with free soil lead tests this spring. Anyone who gardens in the Greater Portland area is encouraged to sign-up.
 
Why this matters: Soil lead contamination is very common in Greater Portland due to its industrial and agricultural history. Soil tests are being provided through a grant from the EPA to ensure all gardeners have the information they need to garden safely in areas that commonly have high levels of soil lead contamination.
 
Metro and BSOOB to begin operation of four
electric-powered buses next month
The news: Greater Portland Metro and Biddeford, Saco, Old Orchard Beach (BSOOB) Transit plan to begin operation of four electric-powered buses in May.

Why this matters: The electric buses will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide a quieter and more pleasant riding experience.

Provide feedback on how transit and active transportation can be improved in Maine
The news: Maine Department of Transportation has opened two surveys to gather feedback on transit and active transportation in Maine.

Why this matters: Your feedback will help inform the agency's Long-Range Transportation Plan 2050.

It's Portland vs. Boston in the final match!
The news: StreetsBlog is hosting a competition to determine the best bus stop in America, and a Portland bus stop has made it to the championship bout against the bus stop in Boston. Local jewelry artist and Ghana native Ebenezer Akakpo designed the Portland stop, which is located on Congress Street in front of Mechanics Hall.

Why this matters: This is an opportunity to celebrate Akakpo's incredible work. Voting ends Friday, April 15, at 10:00 AM.

New mobility guide is now available
The news: We've updated our Southern Maine Mobility Guide, which lists all public and private transportation options available in Cumberland and York Counties.

Why this matters: The guide supports people seeking transportation and those in caregiving or support roles. Please share this guide widely. Reach out to Outreach & Communications Associate Kat Violette at kviolette@gpcog.org, if you would like printed copies.
New journey map helps community members navigate the region's transit system
GPCOG and the City of Portland’s Office of Economic Opportunity partnered to develop the Transportation Journey Map. The journey map helps community members navigate and choose their transportation options based on their needs. The journey map is also translated into the top 5 languages spoken in the region. Please share!
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