Governor Janet Mills on Tuesday unveiled her plan to move Maine toward economic recovery, as the state anticipates a gradual reopening and lifting of COVID-19 restrictions over the summer.

The governor’s administration says the Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan will use $1.13 billion in discretionary federal relief funds that were allocated to Maine under the American Rescue Plan Act. They say it would target economic recovery from the pandemic, long-term growth, and infrastructure revitalization.

It would set aside millions each for things like recovery grants and loan guarantees, launching a health work initiative, and connecting workers to job opportunities. It’s focused on supporting Maine small businesses and heritage industries, encouraging new businesses and job creation, and infrastructure like roads and bridges, broadband, affordable housing, and child care.

“This Federal funding represents an unprecedented opportunity to address the longstanding challenges that have constrained our state’s ability to thrive over the years. By encouraging innovative small business growth, investing in our workforce, and building essential infrastructure, like housing, child care and broadband, we can accelerate our recovery from the pandemic and build a stronger, more prosperous Maine,” said Governor Janet Mills.