An $8 million project to add parking at Portland International Jetport is a step closer to being built after approval from the Portland Planning Board
The project will provide 265 long-term surface parking spaces in a wooded area near an existing parking lot and garage.
Neighbors have opposed the parking expansion, questioning the need for an additional parking lot.
The Press Herald reports board members expressed a preference for expanding the existing parking garage rather than adding more surface parking.
Planning Board Chairman Brandon Mazer told CBS 13 News he had concerns before joining a 4-1 vote to approve the plan.
“My preference would be, for good planning, let’s build on what’s already paved rather than paving a wetland over,” Mazer said. “But the board realized the Jetport doesn’t just serve Portland and South Portland, it really serves the state and their need for additional parking.”
The project must still pass muster with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection.
Th plan will also need approval for its funding from the Portland City Council. The Jetport plans to pay for the project with $8 million from its cash reserve.
