WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King and Congresswoman Chellie Pingree today announced the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) is being awarded $25 million to fund community infrastructure projects in the East Deering neighborhood in Portland — months after they expressed support for the project in a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Supported by the Department of Transportation (DOT) Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grants, the funding will be used to install and restore shared-use transportation pathways, upgrade roads and intersections, and adjust an interstate off-ramp to mitigate traffic.

RAISE grants invest in a wide variety of transportation projects at the state and local level that work to improve safety, environmental suitability, community connectivity and economic development. The grants are funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides $1.5 billion annually for the program through fiscal year 2026. Senator King and Congresswoman Pingree both voted in favor of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021.

“East Deering is an iconic Portland neighborhood that boasts historic residences and beautiful coastline views,” said Senator King and Congresswoman Pingree. “As the neighborhood continues to grow, modern infrastructure improvements will be critical to improving community connectivity. This funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help revitalize East Deering, making it more accessible and safe for those who call it home.”

The grant comes as Northeastern University begins construction of its new Roux Institute in the East Deering neighborhood. Currently, there is only one road available to access the campus, raising concerns from residents about increased traffic. The adjusted interstate off-ramp will help alleviate concerns and improve traffic flow.

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