Background

 

The Capital Riverfront Improvement District (CRID) was established by law in 1999 creating a local-state partnership that coordinates and shares resources to the benefit of Maine’s capital city and Maine citizens with the purpose of:

 

“Protecting the scenic character of the Kennebec River corridor while providing continued public access and an opportunity for community and economic development, and protecting the historic, archeological, recreational and ecological resources identified within the district and the constructed and natural environment of the district.”

 

CRID is governed by a 16-member board comprised of ex-officio state agency representation, appointments by the Augusta City Council, and appointments by the Governor.  The Governing Board meets on a regular basis and all meetings are open to the public.  The Maine Development Foundation staffs the effort on a contractual basis. 

 

 

The genesis of CRID began with the removal of the Edwards Mill Dam on the Kennebec River at the head-of-tide, just north of Augusta’s downtown.  In 1997, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission made the unprecedented decision to deny the dam’s license renewal and ordered the removal of the dam.  The dam was removed in 1999, resulting in a free flowing Kennebec River for the first time since 1837.  The dam removal opened up 17 miles of prime spawning habitat for anadromous fish (such as salmon, alewives, and striped bass).

 

The dramatic removal of the dam presented a unique opportunity for the City of Augusta and the State of Maine to work in a cooperative partnership to revitalize the heart of Augusta.  This partnership is unique in the nation and has served Maine’s capital city well.