HOULTON, Maine — It has been 25 years since the town underwent a major renovation as part of its Downtown Revitalization project.
That project turned what was then a seriously run-down section of Houlton into a picturesque downtown for all to enjoy, as fancy brick sidewalks were installed and Main Street was rebuilt to modern standards.
Unfortunately, the rough Maine winters have taken their toll on the brick sidewalks in several areas of the downtown, prompting town officials to consider a new renovation project.
“Given that it’s been roughly 25 years, I’d say the sidewalks have held up remarkably well,” said Nancy Ketch, community and economic development director. “The bricks were selected for aesthetics and they really looked great. But with brick, they really should have been taken out and reset every seven to 10 years and that never happened.”
The town of Houlton is preparing a grant application for reconstruction of the sidewalks around the downtown and will hold a public information meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 3, at 6 p.m. in the council chambers.
Back in 1990, the cost of the sidewalk project alone was about $50,000, Ketch said. Today, the cost is likely to be upwards of $500,000.
The town is considering making a change from the brick sidewalks in favor of either concrete pavers, stamped asphalt or standard asphalt. Installing new brick sidewalks is not being considered, Ketch said, because the bricks were found to be slippery in the winter.
“There are a number of views on what type of material would be best,” Ketch said. “That is why we are holding a public meeting to get some input on what people would like to see.”
Members of the public are invited to the meeting to provide input on the project. For more information, contact Ketch at 521-5938 or email comm.development@houlton-maine.com.
