New vision for Simard-Payne Park in Lewiston includes outdoor concert venue

MAINE PUBLIC • July 20, 2026

The developer behind Thompson's Point in Portland wants to transform Simard-Payne Park in Lewiston into an outdoor venue space that could attract national touring acts. A proposed letter of intent details a potential partnership between the city of Lewiston and Eco Hospitality Consultants. Eco Hospitality would have the 10-year rights to bring concerts and other seasonal programming to Simard-Payne Park, which sits on the bank of the Androscoggin River. It would also redevelop the historic Red Shop, which currently stores boats and other equipment, into a food, beverage and event venue, with the city having future rights to repurchase the property under certain conditions. And the proposal contemplates the expansion of an existing hotel on Lincoln Street or the construction of a second one.