The Waterville Downtown Transit Corridor, Gateways, and Revitalization Project sought to stimulate economic activity in the downtown area, while making improvements to community spaces, streetscapes, and traffic flow. Through the years, changing traffic patterns and urban development have made Main Street a place to be avoided, rather than a destination. Those looking to travel through had to navigate a congested downtown and several traffic lights, while people looking to shop had to deal with dangerous parking and a confusing one-way street. Maine Department of Transportation’s $9.3 million project set out to create a more attractive downtown, with improved traffic flow, increased pedestrian safety, and overall pedestrian friendliness. This project slowed down traffic while prioritizing streetscape improvements, maintaining and improving pedestrian lights and crosswalks to ensure safety for all users.
America's Transportation Awards 