We thank Saco & its transportation partners
There is strong demand for new apartments on Saco Island. More than half of these folks are arriving from outside Maine, from various locations throughout the United States & Canada. Saco’s newest residents keep telling us that they love living in downtown Biddeford-Saco.
The Forge Collection has just published a “video thank-you” to the City of Saco, the Amtrak Downeaster, and Biddeford-Saco-Old Orchard Beach Transit. That’s because we are learning, in conversations with prospective renters, that the availability of excellent public transportation is a big plus. Ironically, that is true for both older residents and for younger folks just starting out. Not everyone wants to own a car, so the ability to live in a “cool” place, without a car, is a very attractive option for many.
Another feature of living on Saco Island that our residents love is the pedestrian bridge that was approved in 2015 and then put into place, connecting downtown Biddeford to downtown Saco. The City of Saco played a key role getting that bridge up, working with the Maine Department of Transportation. We’ve watched an increasing number of people using the bridge, even in just the last few months. We’ve also heard, unofficially, that city leaders in Biddeford and Saco are exploring the addition of a second pedestrian bridge, probably close to and parallel to the railroad bridge that carries The Downeaster over the Saco River. And all of these plans are cognizant of The Eastern Trail, and River Walk trails in both Biddeford and Saco.
Public transportation and pedestrian-friendly options. This is very smart thinking, and absolutely key to the continued revitalization of two old New England downtowns. There’s a lot more to do, but it’s really happening, and it’s great to see.