The Maine Department of Marine Resources (DMR) is in the process of replacing the existing pier, gangway, and float system on Burnt Island to support safer access to the property, and to ensure resilience to sea level rise driven by climate change.

Located in Boothbay Harbor, it features Burnt Island Light Station, the second oldest surviving lighthouse in Maine which was built in 1821. The 5-acre island is operated by DMR and serves as an educational and recreational facility for teachers, school children and visitors. The island includes a lighthouse keeper’s residence, an Educational Center, and walking trails to explore the shoreline and views of the harbor.

“The island can only be reached by boat or kayak, and the existing pier infrastructure serving the island, including floats, pier, and gangway are in need of a substantial upgrade to enhance safety, utility, resiliency, and accessibility for all visitors to the island,” said DMR Commissioner Carl Wilson.

The new pier will be constructed of wooden framing, decking, and floats, and an aluminum gangway.  Additionally, the system will be supported by wooden and steel piles. 

“The new system will provide a larger and more stable float system for use by multiple vessels at one time and for groups visiting the island,” said Wilson. 

The project budget is $862,700, which is paid for by a combination of funds from the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan, Governor Mills’ investment of federal American Rescue Plan Act funds, and from the Department of Administrative and Financial Services’ Bureau of General Services. The project is underway and scheduled for completion by the spring of 2026.

Bancroft Contracting Corporation of South Paris, Maine was chosen through a competitive bid process to do the work. 

“Burnt Island is an important attraction for summer visitors and residents, and use of this historic site has increased significantly since the pandemic as interest in the use of parks and public spaces has grown,” said Commissioner Wilson. “The new pier will provide a safer point of access for visitors to the island, and a more resilient structure that can withstand the impacts of storms driven by a changing climate.”

Burnt Island is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., June through October. More information on Burnt Island can be found on the Maine Department of Marine Resources' website.