WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rockland, Vinalhaven, and Matinicus Plantation are among 19 Maine organizations receiving a share of $16,201,188 to support important development projects. The funding comes from the Northern Border Regional Commission’s (NBRC) Fiscal Year 2026 Catalyst, Timber for Transit, and Forest Economy programs. 

"The NBRC has been an important partner in helping Maine's rural communities make investments in projects that strengthen local economies and improve quality of life, said U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, in a news release. "This funding will support critical infrastructure upgrades, workforce development, housing, childcare, transportation access, and forest economy projects across our state. These investments will help communities address local needs, create jobs, and expand economic opportunity for Mainers."

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City of Rockland, in Congressional District 2, will receive funds from the Timber for Transit Program Spring 2026

Project Summary: The City of Rockland has been awarded $4,000,000 to rebuild the Public Landing pier and redesign the harbormaster building as a storm-resilient demonstration of advanced, regionally sourced wood products in marine transportation infrastructure. This critical multimodal hub serves 600 mooring holders, hundreds of transients, cruise passengers, island communities, and major festivals that drive significant regional spending, yet current structures are vulnerable to sea-level rise and flooding. With engineering and key permits in hand, the project’s flexible resilience design will elevate the deck and showcase timber solutions recognized as a high-priority regional investment.

Total Project Amount: $5,540,000.

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Town of Vinalhaven, in Congressional District 2, is receiving funds from the Catalyst Program Spring 2026

Project Summary: The Town of Vinalhaven has been awarded $46,500 to conduct a Municipal Property Feasibility & Optimization Assessment of up to six Town-owned parcels, including the centrally located Net Factory site. Deliverables include site studies, conceptual layouts, order-of-magnitude cost estimates, and an evaluation framework to compare uses such as community meeting infrastructure, public parking, workforce housing, and downtown-supportive assets. This 12-month effort builds on prior planning and NBRC investments to position shovel-ready public infrastructure that strengthens year-round economic vitality.

Total Project Amount: $93,000.

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Matinicus Isle Plantation, in Congressional District 1, is receiving funds from the Catalyst Program Spring 2026

Project Summary: Matinicus Isle Plantation has been awarded $70,400 to acquire approximately three acres comprising the island’s only airstrip and associated easements, preserving a critical transportation lifeline for a remote, unbridged community. Funding covers land purchase, legal, and survey costs, with completion expected in 60–120 days of award. Securing long-term site control protects emergency access, mail and supply delivery, and resident travel essential to island sustainability. 

Total Project Amount: $88,000.

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2026 recipients of the Catalyst Program are as follows: 

• Maine Dept. of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry - $1,000,000
• Town of Livermore Falls - $1,000,000
• Tree Street Youth - $1,000,000
• Workforce Housing Coalition Western Maine Mountains - $1,000,000
• Brooksville Town House - $902,938
• Ashland Water & Sewer District - $680,000
• City of Calais - $590,580
• Old Town Water District - $520,000
• IBEW Augusta Electrical JATC - $497,560
• Central Maine Growth Council - $485,000
• Spruce Mountain Educational Fund - $368,000
• Northern Maine Development Commission, Inc. - $360,210
• Town of Albion - $100,000
• Matinicus Isle Plantation - $70,400
• City of Augusta - $80,000
• Town of Vinalhaven - $46,500 

 2026 recipients of the Timber for Transit Program are as follows: 

• City of Rockland - $4,000,000
• Main Street Skowhegan - $2,500,000 

2026 recipients of the Forest Economy Program are as follows: 

• Southern Aroostook Development Corporation - $1,000,000 

A detailed description of each project can be read here.