I am writing to express my strong support in favor of rezoning Portland’s western waterfront zone to allow the construction of a cold-storage facility in excess of the existing 45-foot height limitation. I believe that the benefits of increased maritime activity on Portland’s historic waterfront far outweigh any adverse impact the construction of a facility with a height comparable to existing waterfront structures may have.

As a resident of the West End, I understand that homeowners with harbor-facing properties may take issue with vistas being limited by new construction.

I, however, feel that the potential economic impact of constructing and operating a modern warehouse facility, as well as the services provided by local businesses to vessels calling at the Port of Portland, must be taken into account.

The Port of Portland is one of Maine’s three primary deep-water commercial ports. Allowing continued investment in Portland Harbor helps our farmers, fishermen and manufacturers by providing access to intermodal transportation solutions here in Maine while encouraging railway, truck and ocean carriers to move more freight into and out of the state.

Having spent the early part of my career as a seafarer on board cargo ships, I’ve seen first-hand the large-scale commercial activity at modern ports around the world. I would like nothing more than for the Port of Portland to take every opportunity to participate in, and benefit from, global trade.

Jeffrey Musk

Portland