PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • November 8, 2021
Maine is steps closer to receiving billions of dollars in dedicated funding for roads, bridges, water systems, high-speed internet, electric vehicle charging and other programs following the passage of a bipartisan infrastructure bill in Congress last week. The infrastructure funding includes at least $19 million to expand a state network of electric vehicle charging stations and more than $230 million for public transportation. The state intends to apply for the greatly expanded suite of grants. It is especially interested in funding for a village-focused “complete street” transportation program to emphasize pedestrians, cyclists and other nonvehicular traffic in more populated areas. Clean water is set to receive the second-highest amount of funding after highways in Maine, with $390 million dedicated to water infrastructure.