EASTPORT — A projected 40 percent drop in population by 2030 presents a scary scenario for a community whose boosters see it bustling with new energy.
The 40 percent decline from Eastport’s population of about 1,331 in 2010 was projected by Maine State Economist, Amanda Rector.
“This projection is a reflection of current and recent trends,” Rector explained. “We looked at data for each county and then projected for individual towns and cities based on a past proportion within that county.”
The city’s population peaked at 5,311 in 1900. The historic Water Street district, rebuilt mostly in brick following a fire in 1886, reflects a more populous and prosperous time.
Eastport native Hugh French believes that stemming the population decline is all about creativity. Preserving the culture and buildings of the past while at the same time bringing in new ideas is at the heart of his vision. Letting the world know about the vitality of the city is part of his mission.
French set out over a decade ago to save the old Bangor Savings Bank building in the heart of the historic downtown. In the process, he created the Tides Institute Museum of Art (TIMA), a cultural center that celebrates Eastport’s unique identity on the border with Canada. His efforts have brought master craftsmen, architects and artists from both sides of the border to restore buildings and use art as a means of promoting the region.
“We are half way between Portland and Halifax,” said French, who refuses to call Eastport the nation’s most easterly city, and instead wants to highlight, strengthen and capitalize on the ties across the border.
One of TIMA’s initiatives focusing on the creative spirit in town is Artsipelago, a guide to artists and cultural activities in the entire region. ARTPLACE, a national funding organization, awarded TIMA a significant grant for this program, citing the importance of leveraging the arts for community revitalization. Among thousands of applicants nationwide, this was the only grant awarded in Maine and one of two in New England.
The Maine State Arts commission also has helped fund TIMA with another program, “On the Creative Edge.” The Tides Institute in partnership with several city and regional organizations is working to attract residents to this area.
“We are big on ideas, yet small in population,” said French, who would like to see more young people and families move to Eastport. When French attended school, there were at least 50 students in each grade; now his daughter’s third grade class has just seven.
For him, attracting young people means creating something of interest to do and leading a way forward.
This summer, two more buildings renovated by the Tides Institute will be open on Water Street.
“The intent is not just to just rebuild but to reinvent and make it work in the 21st century,” said French of the new printmaking studios that also will serve as demonstration of energy efficiency.
Creating a buzz about these new developments is equally important. To help build that enthusiasm, TIMA is producing a lively color brochure, full of photographs and art, which targets young people searching for a community to call home. Descriptions of local food markets, entertainment, good schools and quality health care are highlighted; such amenities are high on the list of what people look for in a community to which they consider relocating. Several individuals who live and work full time in Eastport are also highlighted in the brochure.
The new city manager is confident the projection does not have to become reality and is encouraged by new employment opportunities.
“I am not going to believe that we continue to decline,” said Larry Post.
He points out that a Canadian boatbuilder is eager to set up shop in the old Guilford mill, promising to employ up to 40 workers, as well as recent port activity that has attracted the interest of a wood pellet manufacturing facility.
Sara Griffin, general manager of Quoddy Bay Lobster, shares Post’s confidence. The family owned and operated business opened this season with a major addition to its seafood market and restaurant.
“People here know how to get the job done,” Griffin said of the workforce and business leaders. She is encouraged by the sense that, as she puts it, “Eastport is booming.”
Coverage of Washington County is supported by a grant from the Eaton Foundation.