Summary of major construction projects along the Maine East Coast Greenway -- sections of the Downeast Sunrise Trail and the Eastern Trail.

1. Construction Surges along the East Coast Greenway
The 2010 construction season will see over 60 miles of shared-use path added to
the proposed East Coast Greenway network in Maine. These projects have
been in the works for years and are finally being realized due to the work of state
and local agencies and the support & advocacy of hundreds of volunteers.
The longest rail-trail in New England and the longest off-road section of the East
Coast Greenway is scheduled to open at the end of this year. The first 32 miles
of the Downeast Sunrise Trail opened last year. Another 33 miles should be
ready for year-round use by July with the remaining 20 miles completed by the
Fall. This 85-mile shared use path will offer spectacular views and an almost
wilderness-like experience compared to other sections of the East Coast
Greenway.
Sunrise Trail Coalition President, Bill Ceckler, Sally Johnson and Polly Ceckler ski by
Schoodic Mtn. on the Downeast Sunrise Trail. The rails have been removed on this
section but culverts, bridges and surface repairs will not be complete until Fall. (Photo
by Sally Jacobs)
Complementing the construction in Hancock and Washington County is the over
8 miles of the Eastern Trail under construction in York County. Four miles of
rather challenging engineered path in Saco has been bid for construction with
groundbreaking to commence in the summer. Over 6 miles of shared-use path

2. between Biddeford and Kennebunk have seen great progress with the relatively
cooperative weather this Spring. This new section of trail should be finished in
the summer with a temporary stopping point at the Maine Turnpike.
Just north of the Kennebunk Rest Areas, foundation work is underway for a dedicated
shared-use path to cross the Maine Turnpike.
Observant highway travelers may have noticed the piles of dirt just north of the
Kennebunk Rest Areas. These are the future bridge abutments for a distinctive
bridge that will carry trail users across the Turnpike. When completed in 2011,
the Eastern Trail/East Coast Greenway bridge will be gateway feature for
highway travelers to Maine and a testament to the great walking and bicycling
opportunities in the state.
The Eastern Trail/East Coast Greenway bridge will incorporate low-cost aesthetic
enhancements. The arched rail, distinctive color and tapered piers will attract the notice
of many of the residents and visitors to Maine that travel on the Turnpike. (courtesy of
the Maine Turnpike Authority)