Maine
BIL invests $1.5 billion into Maine's roads & bridges which will help eliminate the growing funding gaps and improve safety.
Maine is a state in the northeastern region of the United States of America with a population of approximately 1.3 million people. The state is known for its beautiful coastlines, lush forests, and historic cities. In recent years, Maine has been making efforts to improve its infrastructure, including its transportation, energy, and communication systems. The American Society of Civil Engineers gave Maine a C- on its infrastructure report card.
Transportation infrastructure in Maine is largely dependent on highways, with the majority of people traveling by car. The state has a total of 23,246 miles of public roads, of which approximately 8,540 miles are considered to be in poor or mediocre condition. Maine also has a total of 2,444 bridges, with 330 of those considered structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. In addition to highways, the state has 20 airports, 5 public transit systems, and a deep-water port in Portland.
Maine's energy infrastructure is largely focused on renewable sources, particularly wind and hydroelectric power. As of 2021, the state had a total installed capacity of 1,004 MW of wind power and 954 MW of hydroelectric power. Maine also has significant potential for solar power, with an estimated 12,000 MW of capacity available. The state is also home to two nuclear power plants.
In terms of communication infrastructure, Maine has made significant progress in recent years in expanding access to high-speed internet. As of 2021, approximately 94% of Maine households had access to broadband internet, an increase from just 56% in 2010. The state has also made efforts to expand access to mobile broadband, particularly in rural areas.
Overall, while Maine has made progress in improving its infrastructure, there are still areas that require attention and investment. Improving road conditions and addressing the issues with structurally deficient bridges should remain a priority for the state. Additionally, continued investment in renewable energy and expanding access to high-speed internet will be critical for Maine's future growth and economic development.