The Boothbay Region Information Center at the Route 27 and Adams Pond Road intersection is getting some updates before the 2021 season kicks into high gear. Along with the tasks opening any seasonal building entails, BRIC will get a new sign out front and a new kiosk.

Board member Ginny Farrin said the sign’s design will be similar to surrounding businesses to create some uniformity in the area. The kiosk was a late addition to BRIC’s agenda, so all the work will be spaced out to accommodate the already busy members, said Farrin.

“We have been thinking about how the public can continue to have access to our members’ information for the hours we are closed, or if someone is not comfortable coming in while we are open.”

The idea for the kiosk came from a conversation between Pat Farrin and Ocean Point Inn President Anthony Krason. Pat Farrin returned to the board with the idea and former Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust’s land and water stewardship manager gave advice on kiosks and QR codes based on her years of nonprofit work. Pat and Kipp Farrin and their crew have already set up the frame and Chuck House added shingles to the roof, said Ginny Farrin.

BRIC was established in 1959 by Boothbay Chamber of Commerce and is separate from Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce (BHRCC), said Farrin. “The Boothbay Region Information Center is part of the fabric of this community, and was the inspiration of Eva Whitney. She saw a need for visitors to have help navigating around our region, and started the center with help from her friends … Friends and volunteers built the building that stands there today.”

However both entities continue to find areas to work on together such as BRIC distributing the Harbor Guidebooks and keeping weekend hours while BHRCC stays open weekdays. Farrin said BRIC will be open on weekends starting at the end of June and hours will be added as business picks up.

“Hence the reason to build the kiosk so member information will be available even during closed hours. We would like to find volunteers, maybe retired veterans who know the region and would like to interact with the public … We could then be open more often during the week.”

Farrin said she counted 104 members during the last mailing to membership. She hopes the addition of a kiosk will continue to serve members during BRIC’s off hours. “Many people over the years have made a point of stopping to say hello, to see what’s new and what is still the same, and tell us they are glad to see us again – happy that we are still here. Our staff enjoys guiding people around the region, and planning their days. It’s a nice service and a great location.”