About FEDC
Accomplishments

    Sponsored Vision 2010 plan for economic development for the village.  As a result of the Plan,
       physical improvements were implemented through partnerships with the Vision 2010 Implementation
       Team and the Freeport Community Improvement Association.  On-going sidewalk improvements are
       being made by the Town of Freeport.  Additional funding for lighting, benches and landscaping has
       been provided by the Town as well as private contributions.  Modifications to the downtown
       business district ordinances have been made.  Click here to download a printable version of the
       Vision 2010 plan
    Commissioned Route One South plan, providing direction for future growth; currently implementing
       the Plan’s recommendations.   Click Here to download a printable version of the plan.
    Supported revival of Lower Main Street as an expanded cluster area for dining and retail.
    Coordinated creation of new 118,000 sq. ft. retail and dining development with 500+ parking spaces.
       The structure is under construction
    Developed Tax Increment Financing Guidelines for the community.   Click Here to download
       guidelines.
    Coordinated successful TIF application  for new Berenson Associates village development, Freeport
       Village Station.
    Assisted many new businesses who located or are locating to Freeport in a range as diverse as the
       Hilton Garden Inn, Custom Convertibles, Cold River Vodka, Shaw’s Foods, Wilbur’s of Maine
       Chocolate Confections, Buck’s Naked BBQ, Winter People, and Air and Water Quality.
       Coordinated efforts among the Town Planner, Engineer, and Codes Enforcement Officer with new or
       expanding businesses.
     Established Town of Freeport Project Development Team to proactively provide information
        regarding upcoming commercial projects and address potential issues
    Facilitated the creation of a Village Mixed Use District ordinance
    Advocated the approval by Town Council of contract zoning.
    Promoted Freeport at national and local industry trade shows.
    Provided promotional opportunities to new businesses.
    Sponsored “Destination Freeport”, a catalyst among Freeport lodging properties, to proactively
       attract more overnight stays in town, especially during non-peak periods.
    Motivated grass-roots efforts among businesses to create their own success by attracting weekend
       groups, creating a calendar of local and regional events that affect business in town, recruiting
       Brunswick Taxi Service to open a branch in Freeport, creating a new weekend event, Music &
       Libations Festival.
    Supported development of green industrial park and medical and professional service buildings
    Partnered with the Freeport Merchants Association to enhance and implement  Freeport’s Brand
       Positioning Statement and evolving image
    Redesigned and implemented a more informative FEDC website.
    Compiled significant Maine and Freeport business data that is comprehensive, applicable, and
       valuable; supplied to property owners, site locators, real estate brokers, and developers to assist in
       recruitment efforts as well as to potential new business owners
    Regularly update available commercial property listing – available on FEDC web site
    Initiated and continue to support Creative and Innovative Economy movement in Freeport

2007 - 2008 Strategic Areas of Focus

Although the FEDC services much of its local business base on a per request basis, it is very focused on proactively implementing the following:

    •     Business retention, expansion and attraction:  keep and attract new businesses that enhance the
             Town and expand tax revenues
    •     Diversify and grow commercial tax base:  improve financial and infrastructure sustainability;
             re-establish Freeport’s brand; develop business clusters
    •     Community quality of life:  strengthen community amenities and protect Freeport’s authenticity
    •     Business-friendly community:  unify the business, government and school communities around a
             common, shared vision that welcomes quality businesses
  

CONTACT US

Stephanie Slocum
Executive Director
Freeport Economic Development Corporation
30 Main Street
Freeport, ME 04032

207-865-4743  x117

fedc@freeportmaine.com

www.freeportecon.com

www.freeportmaine.com