If the two uses can’t coexist, the one that boosts our economy should come first.

Transportation planners have the funds because voters approved this kind of spending. Using the bond money to pay Maine’s share would deplete much of what is left in the fund, creating potential problems elsewhere in the state. But the state can’t afford to back out of the Kittery project now.

When the next wave of economic growth finally gets here, where will it hit first? A new study makes a strong case that it will be in the cities and towns that make up our metropolitan areas.

They are already the source of the most economic activity, produce most of their state’s exports and collect most of the taxes.

They are home to most of the people, including a disproportionate share of the scientists and engineers who will be at the center of the next economic resurgence, as well as working-age people with college degrees who will be needed to fill newly created, high-skill jobs.