Bill > LD1340

This bill establishes the Municipal Stream Crossing Fund (MSCF), a competitive grant program administered by the Department of Transportation to support stream crossing replacements on municipal roads. The fund will be financed through bond sales and public and private contributions, with grants awarded to local governments, municipal conservation commissions, soil and water conservation districts, and nonprofit organizations. When evaluating grant applications, the department will prioritize projects that improve flood preparedness, restore fish and wildlife habitats, particularly for native brook trout and sea-run fish, and meet specific technical criteria such as crossing width and flood standards. Grants will be awarded based on factors including the project's priority for aquatic restoration, urgency, potential to reduce flooding, and cost-effectiveness. Importantly, grants cannot cover all project costs and cannot be used for state or private road crossings. The bill includes initial funding allocations of $500 from both Federal Expenditures Fund and Other Special Revenue Funds for fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27, demonstrating a commitment to supporting municipal infrastructure and environmental resilience through strategic stream crossing improvements.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1340&snum=132