BANGOR DAILY NEWS • May 23, 2023
Maine has long been known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation. Think of Henry David Thoreau’s travels through the Maine woods or the countless painters drawn to the drama of Maine’s coast and mountains. Outdoor recreation contributes $3 billion a year to the state’s economy and supports 41,000 jobs. Trails — for snowmobiling, ATV riding, hiking, cross country skiing, biking and other ventures — are an essential part of that economy. For the first time, state lawmakers are considering a bond to support this work. Nearly every year, voters approve around $100 million in bonds for work on the state’s roads and other transportation infrastructure. Investing in improving Maine’s trails, for a variety of users, should be a priority as well.