I-295 sliced through neighborhoods, wetlands, parks, and rail yards when it was built in the early 1970’s. It promised to bring economic revitalization to the city through improved automobile mobility and access. Portland had been in decline for decades, with businesses relocating to the the outskirts of town and residents heading for rapidly-growing bedroom suburbs like Cumberland, Scarborough, Gorham and Falmouth.
What if I told you that it was all a con?
Come for a fun romp through Portland’s decline into the car-dominated lows of 50 years ago. A series of state and local crises saved the city from further destruction, and our turnaround began when tourists began arriving in droves to see the Old Port, West End, Eastern Promenade, and other places that weren’t bulldozed for more lanes and parking. Now it’s time to go further. Other cities across America and the world have brought their urban highways to heel and transformed them – why not us?
Accessibility:
This will have a steep downhill section. There are bus stops near both the beginning and end. It could be muddy along the back cove trail section.
Starting Location:
Meet at the small roundabout at Charles Loring Memorial Park, overlooking Tukey’s Bridge
Ending Location:
The stone castle at Deering Oaks Park, where the farmers market will be on!
Portland, Maine 04103
11:30 AM
Organization: Co-Founder, Mainers for Smarter Transportation
