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AUGUSTA — The Maine Downtown Center, a program of Maine Development Foundation, recently recognized outstanding, innovative work and steadfast dedication to community revitalization with its annual statewide Downtown Awards.
The four awards were announced at a celebration luncheon held Sept. 26 at the Governor Hill Mansion.
For their redevelopment of the 1854 Povich Building located in downtown Bath, Windward Development and Bath Brewing Company received the 2018 Economic Development Award. This project has resulted in 42 new jobs and has increased foot traffic throughout the downtown.
“This project was a unique partnership in a community that embraced our vision,” says Sean Ireland, owner of Windward Development. “Main Street Bath and the City of Bath have laid the groundwork for a vibrant and welcoming downtown district. Our partnership with these entities was vital to the success of the development and we look forward to future projects in the City of Bath. We are honored to receive this award.”
Tobias Parkhurst was the recipient of the 2018 Catalyst Award for his leadership and investment in downtown Augusta. He and his father, Richard Parkhurst, converted vacant buildings on the river, renovated them into market-rate apartments and opened Augusta’s first brewery and wood-fired pizza restaurant, Cushnoc Brewing.
He has also donated countless hours as champion and chair of the Augusta Downtown Alliance, driving the Main Street organization’s focus and mission.
Mike Gent and Cheryl Clark saw potential in the Milliken Block after it sat vacant for a year in downtown Gardiner. Their vision and work to transform the once silent building into a community hub of activity earned them the 2018 Community Impact Award. The space now includes Gardiner’s only brewery, Two Gramps Brewing, a number of non-profit tenants, SpinOff Studio, and Healthy Communities of the Capital Area.The third floor provides additional space for artists, woodworkers and yoga.
Amy Grohman, president of Heart of Biddeford, received the 2018 Leadership Award. Every non-profit organization needs a volunteer like Amy Grohman. She has quietly worked behind the scenes, being a master of organization and assisted with strengthening bylaws, shoring up a finance committee, and adopting volunteer recruitment strategies. At a time when Biddeford is experiencing rapid growth, HOB is stronger because of Amy.
The Maine Downtown Center Awards serve as inspiration statewide for communities and individuals working on downtown revitalization. They recognize outstanding efforts in communities which are part of MDF’s Maine Downtown Center program.
To learn more about the program and how your community can get involved, visit mdf.org/mdc_overview.php.
