U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has advanced $1,533,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for the Owls Head Transportation Museum’s (OHTM) STEM Community Center in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration Appropriations bill. The legislation, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee on July 12, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.

“STEM programs are fundamental for students to explore their interests, ignite creativity, and learn about possible future career options,” said Senator Collins, in a news release. “This funding would help to expand access to the valuable STEM education programs offered at Owls Head Transportation Museum for students throughout the state. As the Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.” 

“The Owls Head Transportation Museum is grateful to Senator Collins for her support of our STEM Community Center,” said John Bottero, Executive Director of OHTM. “Our operational world-class historic collection is the foundational tool, acting as a backdrop for STEM learning. OHTM’s programs will inspire and equip Maine students to become future innovators and change-makers in our communities — leveling the playing field for future workforce opportunities.”

This funding would support the construction of a STEM Community Center, aimed at expanding STEM education opportunities for all Maine students, both on site and remotely. The Center would include a new exhibit hall, classroom spaces, a research library, and community event spaces.

This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2025 Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration Appropriations bill — an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate, according to a news release. Committee consideration of legislation is a key part of regular order, which helps our government function efficiently and deliver results for the people of Maine and America.       

In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.