The 28,700-square-foot building is planned on the site of the now vacant Tortilla Flats restaurant at 1871 Forest Ave., and will consist of 33 studio apartments.
Andy Beahm, the center's executive director, said the planned building will incorporate exterior nest shelves, so that birds can continue to make Gilsland Farm their home.
The gift accelerates a campaign to raise $15 million for a campus expansion to include a 13,000-square-foot clubhouse addition to serve teens and young adults. The goal is to start construction in late 2026.
Orono Lofts will be a three-story, 40,000-square-foot building at 74 Mill St. The building was originally constructed in the 1800s as a church before being converted for Byers Manufacturing.
Woodfords Family Services — with locations in Brewer, Kennebunk, Manchester, New Gloucester, Waterville and Westbrook — will host an event Aug. 21 to note progress on its Manchester renovation.
The use of engineered wood products is gaining traction with architects, engineers and builders who value its structural stability, light environmental footprint and natural beauty.