Portland debates over island development

The Port of Portland began analysing and planning the occupation and development of the island in 2008. It hopes to develop 300 acres of the island to build a new marine terminal, leaving the remaining 500 acres as a nature preserve, but environmentalists, including the Audubon Society of Portland, are concerned it will threaten the local people and wildlife habitat.

A spokesperson for the Port of Portland told GreenPort: “Exactly what would be built on the 300 acres depends largely on the market – concepts assume cargo such as grain and autos, but there are plenty of other possibilities in the realm of bulk cargo. Future development would be primarily rail served and employ green terminal best practices that enhance efficiency while reducing emissions. We want to be a good neighbour, and every attempt would be made to limit any negative impacts.”

“The Port has worked with neighbours in other areas on issues including, but not limited to, lighting, noise, emissions, traffic, and blight/aesthetics, and would work with neighbours on concerns related to development and terminal activities.”

The proposal to build on 300 acres of the island is expected to head to the City Council next month.