East End Waterfront Access Project (EEWAP)
The East End Waterfront Access Project (EEWAP) is intended to create improved access to the Casco Bay shoreline for non-motorized boaters. Although the new infrastructure will be specifically designed for launching kayaks, paddleboards, rowboats, and other non-motorized vessels, it will also provide greater access to the shoreline for all members of the public.
The Background
In 2015 Friends of the Eastern Promenade launched the East End Waterfront Access Project, a multi-year initiative dedicated to investigating and improving public use of one of Portland’s most valuable resources, the east end waterfront. The Project’s initial phase is focused on improving water access and safety for non-motorized personal watercraft in the area of East End Beach. This work is to be performed in two stages, with an initial design effort – one involving input from a broad range of stakeholders – followed by a more capital-intensive construction phase.
The Funding
The design process is funded through a Shore and Harbor Planning Grant through the Maine Coastal Program, with a local contribution from Friends of the Eastern Promenade. The construction phase will be funded through a Maine Department of Transportation Small Harbor Improvement Program (SHIP) grant, with matching funds to be raised by Friends of the Eastern Promenade. In 2017 the Quimby Foundation awarded a grant to support the project.
The process is collaboratively managed by the City of Portland and Friends of the Eastern Promenade.
The Process
In partnership with the City of Portland, a core working group formed primarily of representatives from Friends of the Eastern Promenade and City staff met in September, 2015 to set project goals and establish an action plan. A larger group of key stakeholders, including representatives of numerous non-profits, commercial users of the East End Beach peninsula, and neighborhood advocates, met in December to provide input regarding perceived needs and possible solutions. Collins Engineers, Inc. were then engaged to develop this input into a set of design alternatives, with the goal of meeting the twin goals of improved access and improved safety.
A second stakeholders meeting was held in early April, 2016 to review initial, draft design alternatives. A public forum convened in late April to introduce the draft designs to the public and gather additional feedback. As a result of this valuable public input, the “preferred alternative” design underwent revision. The initial design phase was completed in 2017, and construction is expected to be complete by the end of 2020.
