BANGOR, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) applauded the selection of three Maine regions to participate in a national pilot program designed to facilitate investments in high-speed internet and intelligent infrastructure. The Maine-based projects, which make up three of the five regions selected nationwide, include the city of Sanford, Old Town – Orono Fiber Corporation, and a collaboration of community groups in the Downeast region, including Eastern Maine Electric Cooperative and Downeast Broadband.

“Today’s announcement by the Post Road Foundation represents a major investment in our state’s future, and reflects the ingenuity, talent, and work ethic that define Maine people,” said Senator King. “In the 21^st century economy, nearly every industry, ranging from boatbuilding and manufacturing to technology startups and financial services, relies on the internet. There is, quite simply, no tool more vital to modern life than high speed internet – but unfortunately, far too many rural communities are being left behind. These public-private partnerships will build upon efforts to close the digital divide in regions in Maine that are struggling with slow connectivity, and advance innovative approaches to deploy smart fiber networks – two important steps that will strengthen Maine's economy and infrastructure. The Post Road Foundation has been an ideal collaborator throughout this process, and their support will open up a new world of possibilities for Maine communities; I can’t wait to see what comes next.”

Over the past year, Senator King and members of his staff have met and worked with the Post Road Foundation to advocate for the inclusion of Maine communities in the national project. Now that the selections have been finalized, the Post Road Foundation and each community and utility partner will conduct a pre-feasibility study that will evaluate the costs and benefits of deploying a smart fiber communications network to homes, businesses and other institutions for digital inclusion, efficient resource management and economic growth. In addition to the Maine communities, the initiative will include the Blue Ridge Mountain Member Electric Cooperative in Georgia and North Carolina, and the Presque Isle Electric & Gas Cooperative in Michigan. The studies are expected to be completed by the end of September.

"Central Maine Power congratulates the Maine communities who have been selected by the Post Road Foundation to enhance the infrastructure necessary to advance Maine's rural economy. CMP applauds the Post Road Foundation for their investment and looks forward to working collaboratively on this important initiative," said Doug Herling, President & CEO of Central Maine Power.

The Post Road Foundation’s non-profit platform aims to bridge the gap between communities and investors by helping to reduce barriers to the development, financing, and deployment of sustainable infrastructure, particularly in places lacking 21st century communications. The organization maintains a close collaboration with research teams from the Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Law School, and receives funding from the Rockefeller Foundation. For the Post Road Foundation’s full press release announcing the program, click HERE.