Press Releases

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree invites official for a visit to focus on economic develop opportunities in Portland, Brunswick and Biddeford

Congresswoman Chellie Pingree brought John Fernandez, the top economic development official from the Obama Administration, to Maine today to highlight the area’s development potential and challenges.

“I’m glad we could bring him here for a firsthand look at the economic challenges Maine faces and to get his national perspective on how we can capitalize on our opportunities,” said Pingree.  “Creating jobs across the state is the number one issue.  We can do it by supporting the kind of mixed-use facilities and manufacturing developments already getting underway in Biddeford, Portland, and Brunswick.   Any expertise and support we can get in building on these developments is incredibly valuable.”

Pingree invited Assistant Secretary of Commerce John Fernandez to the state to show examples of the economic development opportunities and challenges in southern Maine, including former mills in Biddeford and the Portland Waterfront.  Pingree also hosted a meeting in her office between Fernandez and development officials working on the former Brunswick Naval Air Station.

Fernandez said the Obama Administration is focused on helping communities and regions implement strategies that create sustainable jobs and boost economic competitiveness.  “It’s not just about recovery but it’s also about accelerating the transition to a 21st century economy.  And it’s important for me to get out of Washington and see what’s happening on Main Street,” he said. 

In Portland, Pingree and Fernandez toured the Portland waterfront, including Ocean Gateway, the International Marine Terminal and the Fish Exchange.  Pingree also hosted a business roundtable lunch and discussion with Fernandez at DiMillo’s Restaurant.

In Biddeford, Pingree and Fernandez toured the Mill District, a complex of 35 buildings on about 40 acres. 

“There is more space in those mills than in the Empire State Building,” Pingree said.  “The potential for turning that space into jobs and economic development is huge.”

Recently Pingree was able to obtain a special designation for the Mill District that will make it eligible for lower cost financing.  Currently dozens of residential and commercial tenants have moved into renovated mill space in Biddeford and Saco and further development is underway.

“Congratulations on the work you have done here already,” Fernandez said during the tour in Biddeford.  “These things only work when you have public-private partnership.”