Unfortunately, concerns over how the Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT) is planning to spend federal earmarks to expand the freeway ramps on Exit 7 have been unaddressed. Some elements of their plan - like adding a new traffic light and crosswalks - are moving in the right direction. But their plan to widen the southbound off-ramp, thus blocking pedestrian access to Back Cove Park, goes against Maine's goals for energy independence, fiscal responsibility, and pollution reduction.

The Maine Alliance for Sustainable Transportation (MAST) feels that MDOT must find the money to fund an intentional and well-assessed Pedestrian component of this Exit 7 expansion. This pedestrian passage must be wide enough to meet community and safety standards. The League of Young Voters, in conjunction with  MAST, would like to partner with MDOT to figure out how to obtain funds for this portion of the Exit 7 project-and unless these funds are found, the League and MAST believe that this expansion must be put on hold. There are other city projects, such as Franklin Arterial, that need tending to.

Please encourage the Maine Department of Transportation to spend some of the money from the federal government on sustainable transportation alternatives for the future, not more highway!

WHAT: Exit 7 Public Hearing

WHEN: Monday, October 19 - 6 to 8 p.m.

WHERE: Rehearsal Hall of Merrill Auditorium

FMI: Contact Hilary Frenkel, hilary@theleague.com, 207.772.3207