MAINE PUBLIC • April 13, 2026
A stretch of asphalt along Portland's waterfront will be turned into a park. The site, between Maine State Pier and the Ocean Gateway Passenger Ship Terminal, was once used by cars lining up to take the international ferry to Nova Scotia. Since that service ended, the city has used it as a parking lot. By year's end, Portland Parks and Public Works Director Ethan Hipple says it will be very different, "filled with native plants, 40 park trees, great lawn, stage, walking trails, places to sit and enjoy the view and have a cup of coffee." The idea has been around in some form for a decade, but funds were lacking until U.S. Sen. Angus King secured a $2.1 million Congressionally Designated grant.