As the Boothbay-Boothbay Harbor Joint Economic Development Committee (JEDC) started to consider ways to promote economic development, the group decided to turn to local experts. During the winter, members of the JEDC interviewed a wide range of businesses to seek their advice and identify concerns and challenges of doing business in the region.

Most businesses were proud to be on the Boothbay peninsula and most felt optimistic about the future. But there were some common issues that were mentioned. In particular, restaurants, lodging and retail shops in Boothbay Harbor’s downtown often mentioned lack of available parking, congestion, or parking restrictions as chronic problems.

Some employees and owners of downtown businesses park in lots near or in downtown that rent parking spaces on a seasonal basis to businesses or employees. The auto parts store and the greenhouse have seasonal spaces, but often those lots are full with waiting lists.

Drawing on suggestions from local businesses, JEDC members Betty Maddocks and Ken Rayle have been talking with owners of other potential lots near downtown to identify more spaces for seasonal employee parking.

Maddocks noted that “Our short-term goal is simple. Encourage more employees to park near downtown and not utilize on-street parking or town lots. It’s a win-win-win. Employee savings are significant, more lot owners will benefit, and more parking spaces will be available for visitors.” Long-term solutions will require more in-depth studies of utilization and capacity.

Rayle said, “If you are an employer or employee downtown, we encourage you to call and secure parking for this season. At this time, the following locations have spaces available on a first come, first serve basis.” When you call, the lot owner will explain availability, pricing and restrictions, if any.

— Oak Street Provisions, 43 Oak St., Doug Roberts, 207-633-1290

— Midcoast Payroll and Accounting, 35 School St., Linda Foster, 207-633-6500

— Opera House, 86 Townsend Ave., office, 207-633-6855

— Lot across from Thistle Inn, Rick Prose, 207-504-6904

Also, if you have a property “near” downtown that could park two or more cars seasonally, please contact Maddocks at 207-633-3262 or Rayle at 207-633-2700 with details, questions or comments.