PHOTO: Nancy Perlson and RLHT Executive Director David Miller after the Nancy A. Perlson Scenic Turnout sign was unveiled. It was a surprise to Perlson! (RLHT Photo)
MADRID TOWNSHIP — he community gathered on Oct. 6 to celebrate the completion of the Nancy A. Perlson Scenic Turnout and the Rangeley Region Wayfinding System.
Perlson is known in the region for her passion for conservation. For 18 years, she was executive director of Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust. During her retirement, she leads projects like the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway, one of four nationally designated scenic byways in the state. Perlson is also leading the rewrite of the Corridor Management Plan’s goals for the coming 10 to 15 years of the plan’s circulation, proposing projects and ideas for improvements and seeking community input.
She is also treasurer of the Madrid Historical Society, advisor for the High Peaks Alliance, and continues to work with RLHT part-time.
The scenic turnout overlooks the Sandy River. It will greet visitors with a kiosk featuring attractions across the region and Interpretive signs sharing the history of Madrid and Atlantic Salmon restoration efforts in the river, paying tribute to the iconic buildings that once where there.
RLHT staffs Whip Willow Farm Scenic and Height of Land Scenic Overlook during the summer with byway ambassadors. Ambassadors answer questions and connect visitors with experiences, and the turnout will join the list in 2022. Ambassadors connected with more than 4,000 visitors in 2021.
Recently installed, the Rangeley Region Wayfinding System features welcome and directional signs to Rangeley’s attractions. Larry Johannesman, of the Maine Department of Transportation, and SignWorks created and designed the system. The town of Rangeley built and installed the signs.
At the celebration, Mike Wilson of the Northern Forest Center spoke of NFC’s community partnership which led to the development of the wayfinding system. Sharon Strouse of the National Scenic Foundation presented RLHT with the Wayshowing award.
Commissioner of the Department of Transportation Bruce Van Note also spoke, and said, “It’s all about partnerships.” He acknowledged Fred Michaud and Johannesman for their contribution to the RL National Scenic Byway and the communities in the region.
“The processes to get to this point enrich our lives together. Today is about recognizing our work together,” said David Miller, RLHT executive director. “This project is a testament to the power of partnership and dedication to the common good.”
Franklin County Commissioners, Franklin County TIF committee, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, Maine Office of Tourism, Madrid Historical Society, M&H Construction and others supported the projects.
