Franklin County, Maine Projects Secure $2.37 Million for Recreation, Housing, and Trail Improvements
A community ski mountain, a multi-use trail that connects towns, and housing that supports an outdoor recreation workforce have secured more than $2.3 million in funding through the Northern Border Regional Commission’s Spring 2026 Catalyst Program.
The awards reflect the work being done by local organizations, municipalities, and regional partners to identify opportunities, develop competitive projects, and attract investment that strengthens Franklin County communities and supports long-term economic growth.
Spruce Mountain Ski Area Improvements in Jay, Maine
The Spruce Mountain Educational Fund received $368,000 to improve infrastructure at the municipally owned ski area in Jay. The project includes installation of a sprinkler system that will allow the lodge’s second floor to open for public use, upgrades to compressed air capacity for more efficient snowmaking, and modernization of three rope tow lift lines to improve safety and reliability.
The improvements will help expand four-season operations, increase early-season skiing opportunities, promote health and wellness, and maintain affordable access to outdoor recreation for local youth and families.
Extending the Whistle Stop Trail into Downtown Farmington
A $1 million award to the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry will support construction of a multi-use pedestrian and snowmobile bridge over the Sandy River.
The bridge will extend the 14-mile Whistle Stop Trail directly into downtown Farmington, creating a safer connection between neighborhoods, businesses, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and recreational destinations. The project is designed to improve non-vehicular access to jobs, services, and community resources while strengthening tourism and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Construction is currently planned for 2027–2028, with the majority of project funding already committed.
Learn more about the Sandy River Bridge project:
https://highpeaksalliance.org/projects/sandy-river-bridge/
Workforce Housing Infrastructure in Carrabassett Valley
The Workforce Housing Coalition Western Maine Mountains received $1 million to build sewer and roadway infrastructure supporting approximately 50 workforce housing units in Carrabassett Valley.
The project includes installation of sewer mains, treatment infrastructure, and a town-specification roadway that will ultimately be transferred to the Carrabassett Valley Sanitary District for operation and maintenance. Once completed, the development is expected to create housing opportunities for 75 to 100 year-round workers.
Housing continues to be one of the most significant challenges facing employers and communities across Franklin County, making investments like this increasingly important to our region’s long-term economic success.
Learn more about workforce housing in Maine’s Carrabassett Valley:
https://whcwmm.org/category/news/
Local Ideas, Competitive Projects
These awards highlight the work being done by local organizations, municipalities, and regional partners to identify opportunities, develop competitive projects, and attract investment that strengthens Franklin County communities.
The Northern Border Regional Commission awarded $45.4 million across Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York this spring, supporting projects focused on infrastructure, recreation, workforce development, housing, and economic opportunity.
Learn more about the Northern Border Regional Commission:
https://www.nbrc.gov
Stay Connected
Want to stay informed about projects, opportunities, and economic development news from across Franklin County?
Sign up for Greater Franklin email updates and follow us on Facebook for the latest news, events, and success stories from throughout the region.
Share Your Stories
Are you a Spruce Mountain Kid? Do you frequent the Whistle Stop Trail? Do you work in the outdoor rec industry? Have you had difficulty finding housing for yourself, your family, or your employees? Where do you see positive investments in our outdoor recreation economy?