MAINE MONITOR • March 9, 2024
After back-to-back January storms caused millions in damages, ripping shacks from their pilings and tossing piers into the sea, coastal Maine communities are suddenly having to decide how and where to rebuild – if they do at all. Historic structures and attractions up and down the coast were devastated by the storms. A nearly 150-year-old walking path in Bar Harbor that runs along the shore and sees thousands of summer visitors sustained an estimated $900,000 in damages and has been closed since it was hit. Areas of nearby Acadia National Park also sustained heavy damage, including popular hiking paths and large sections of the Schoodic Loop Road, which was undermined in spots. Amanda Pollock, the Acadia National Park public affairs officer, estimated there were roughly 700 downed trees at Seawall Campground and Seawall picnic area, both popular destinations.