To the editor:
Here in Aroostook County, we are fortunate to have one of our very own representing us in the U.S. Senate. Nobody is a stronger advocate for our rural communities than Senator Susan Collins.
If you need proof, look no further than the newly released list of congressionally directed spending requests. While she has advocated for funding for a whole host of important projects across the state, nearly $22 million of Senator Collins’ requests would directly benefit infrastructure, public safety, health care, and economic development in The County.
In my district, Senator Collins has requested $750,000 to help the Town of Washburn construct a new public safety building to house the fire department and police department. Currently, these both have to operate out of an outdated building that is more than 100 years old, sharing space with the town office. A new building would go a long way towards improving public safety, and I hope this request is successful.
Other Aroostook County funding requests include these.
$12.96 million for rail improvements in Northern Maine.
$2.7 million to make roadway improvements and demolish substandard structures at Loring Commerce Center.
$1.2 million towards the reconstruction of Rt. 1 in Presque Isle.
$732,000 for the Town of Houlton’s Walkable Houlton Project.
$643,000 to purchase a mobile unit to extend access to critical health care, oral health, nutrition and behavioral health services through the Aroostook County Action Program.
Nearly $2 million to support programs at Northern Maine Community College.
$758,000 to the town of Frenchville to replace 3,200 feet of force main and upgrade the pump station.
$200,000 to purchase equipment to support health care operations during power outages at Fish River Rural Health.
As you can see, Aroostook County is well represented in Senator Collins’ requests. Please join me in thanking her for her tremendous support.
Rep. Dustin M. White
R-Mars Hill
