Senator Collins Celebrates Completion of Casco Bay Lines’ Terminal Renovations

Click HERE, HERE, and HERE for photos from today’s event

Portland, ME – U.S. Senator Susan Collins participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Casco Bay Lines terminal on the Portland waterfront today.  The event celebrated the completion of more than 18 months of construction and significant renovations to the terminal building, site, and marine infrastructure that are critical to accommodating growth and enhancing the overall long-term operational capabilities of Casco Bay Island Transit District (CBITD). 

Senator Collins was joined by CBITD General Manager Hank Berg, Federal Transit Administration Region 1 Deputy Administrator Michelle Muhlanger, and other project and community stakeholders.  Senator Collins is the Ranking Member of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee and worked to secure nearly $8.5 million in federal funding for the three phases of this project to improve passenger services and safety.  In addition, Senator Collins has secured funding to add new diesel-electric hybrid ferries to Casco Bay Lines’ fleet that will reduce carbon emissions by thousands of metric tons while also reducing exhaust fumes, excessive engine noise, and vibrations common on existing vessels.

“The impressive renovation and expansion of this terminal complement the beauty of the region it serves.  From the vibrant Portland waterfront to the tranquil islands, Casco Bay represents the very best of Maine,” said Senator Collins.  “Whenever I advocate for federal funding for Maine projects, I know that our State will produce a strong return on investment.  Upgrades to the ferry service are investments that will benefit all who live, work, and visit in the Casco Bay region for many years to come.”

Casco Bay Lines’ terminal on the Maine State Pier was built in 1988 to accommodate 500,000 passengers annually.  By 2011, nearly one million people were using the ferry service each year, which led Casco Bay Lines to embark on a multi-part renovation project to enhance both operations and passenger experience.  Phase III addressed remaining critical modifications to marine infrastructure to improve the safety and manageability of the increasingly dense and commingled passenger, freight, and vehicle movement at the terminal.

CBITD serves the islands of Casco Bay and operates passenger, vehicle, and freight service year-round.  The transit operator ensures that passengers have safe, dependable and reliable transportation, and is considered the “lifeline” for the residents of the islands.  Casco Bay Lines’ ferries transport approximately one million passengers, 35,000 vehicles, and over 500,000 pieces of freight annually.  Casco Bay Lines also delivers the U.S. mail and transports island students to and from Portland.