Boosting tourism with ‘inexperienced’ sources

AROOSTOOK COUNTY, Maine (WAGM) –

Officials say alternative energy sources could open the door to more tourism here in the county. Kathy McCarty has more to say about an upcoming Zoom symposium designed to attract tourists interested in a greener visit.

The NMDC has worked consistently to promote alternative energy and other programs through the Governor’s Climate Change Council. Now the agency is looking for alternative energy to increase tourism.

“Aroostook County is truly surrounded by New Brunswick and Quebec, and there are only a large number of electric vehicle charging stations around The County. And we thought that with the designation of two new scenic back roads and a federal cycle route, if we are really trying to attract people to the area, we need to provide some level of convenience to those who may have electricity vehicles that they can recharge while they’re here, ”says Jay Kamm, senior planner at Northern Maine Development Corporation.

With the installation of a level 2 charger at Riverside Park in Presque Isle and growing interest in the environment, officials hope an upcoming educational event will help promote the area as a green travel destination.

“After hearing this post, we decided it was important to educate the public and business community about EV technology. So we found it only fitting that not only the city, but the entire district would benefit from working with our regional business development branch at NMDC to host this EV symposium on May 4th at 6 p.m. ”, says Galen Weibley, Director for Business and Economy Community development for the town of Presque Isle.

Speakers will be available for the free online event to discuss grant options and ways to reduce installation and maintenance costs, according to Jay Kamm.

“I think the concern we’ve heard across the country is that we’re going to see these pretty big utility bills on these charging stations, and like I said, Efficiency Maine really has a little mind change here, you know, we can measure this, ”says Kamm.

Kamm says as electric vehicles improve and their range improves, so will the Maine tourism industry to meet the needs of their owners. For more information or to register, contact Jay Kamm at NMDC or Galen Weibley at Presque Isle City Hall. Kathy McCarty, NewsSource 8

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