$7.6 Million for Acadia National Park Included in Government Funding Law Following Senator Collins’ Advocacy

Washington, D.C.—U.S. Senator Susan Collins, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, announced that the government funding bill that was recently signed into law included $7.6 million to improve water and wastewater infrastructure at Acadia National Park.

“Acadia is one of the crown jewels of our National Park System, and it is our responsibility to preserve its stunning natural beauty for the enjoyment of current and future generations,” said Senator Collins.  “This investment in Schoodic Point’s water and wastewater systems will help reduce the likelihood of environmental contamination and protect the health and safety of visitors and employees.  As a senior member of the Appropriations Committee, I strongly supported this funding, and I will continue to work to ensure Acadia’s needs are met during the ongoing appropriations process for fiscal year 2023.”

Schoodic Point’s water and wastewater systems were constructed in the 1970s and have surpassed their useful lives.  Over 250,000 visitors use facilities in this remote site each year.  This project will also help address over $5 million in deferred maintenance for the Park.  The funding was provided through the Great American Oudoors Act, landmark conservation legislation Senator Collins co-sponsored that was signed into law in August 2020.

In June 2021, the Maine Delegation and Governor Janet Mills welcomed U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to Schoodic Point, where one of the topics they discussed was the need to rehabilitate the water and wastewater systems.

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