Broad neighborhood support for development of the Portland Co. property depends upon a site plan that will not just benefit the owner, but also is guided by values that reflect the unique natural attributes of Munjoy Hill and the city of Portland.

Sidewalks and streets in the areas of upper Fore and Adams streets provide harbor panoramas that are unique to Portland. These viewsheds visually connect residents with the working waterfront and with nature. They are enjoyed by children with parents, bicyclists, joggers, downtown workers on lunchtime walks and visitors to Portland.

More than 4,000 vehicles travel upper Fore Street daily. And thousands of ferry users, sailors and cruise line visitors look up at streets dropping toward the sea that are lined by historic three-story homes and apartment buildings.

These are distinctive public spaces that say, “Portland, Maine.” The panoramas enhance the lives of citizens and are one of the city’s great natural resources.

Upper Fore Street has a precipitous drop of up to 80 feet to the flood plain below. This topography resulted in zoning that allows five- and six-story buildings to be nestled against the hillside without blocking public views.

The developer has 10 acres of waterfront land in a vibrant neighborhood. Adding two or three floors above Fore Street would be pure frosting to the developer’s profit, but at a tremendous cost to the public space.

Most coastal cities have redeveloped their waterfronts to the point of losing their distinctive identities. Portland’s unique typography lets us: 1) Preserve Munjoy Hill’s astounding viewshed and connection with the harbor; and 2) Re-energize the Portland Co. site. Prior City Councils have opted for both.

Brian Burwell

Portland


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