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Poll results

Sponsored by: OTELCO

Architects, planners and developers have long considered the possibility of constructing new high-rise buildings in Maine's cities. Proponents claim the creation of new office space and housing in an urban core reduces the need for fossil-fuel transportation and revitalizes downtown neighborhoods. Critics often say there are more pressing priorities, or object to the loss of open space.

Portland developer Redfern Properties is proposing an 18-story apartment complex in downtown Portland, a project that's in the early stages but could break ground as soon as September. With Maine's housing shortage not letting up, other development could follow.

Would the construction of new, taller residential or commercial buildings benefit Maine's cities?
Yes (65%, 200 VOTES)
No (35%, 107 VOTES)
Poll Description

Sponsored by: OTELCO

Architects, planners and developers have long considered the possibility of constructing new high-rise buildings in Maine's cities. Proponents claim the creation of new office space and housing in an urban core reduces the need for fossil-fuel transportation and revitalizes downtown neighborhoods. Critics often say there are more pressing priorities, or object to the loss of open space.

Portland developer Redfern Properties is proposing an 18-story apartment complex in downtown Portland, a project that's in the early stages but could break ground as soon as September. With Maine's housing shortage not letting up, other development could follow.

  • 307 Votes
  • 11 Comments
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11 Comments

  • Ann Vernal
    March 15, 2021

    We do not want this city to become another Boston!

  • Patricia Kavanagh
    March 15, 2021

    I am not in favor of the 190 foot proposed building BUT I do understand the need for more housing and housing that is affordable. Going up like NYC so we look like - nyet- there has to be a better answer or more buildings that are lower. I love our citiline just like it is. New England is unique and so is Portland

  • March 15, 2021

    It ruins the beauty of our historic city on the waterfront.

  • Bruce Lockwood
    March 15, 2021

    Taller buildings in Portland need to be considered. The East End looks like a collection of six story bunkers - nobody has views. The shorter buildings have much larger footprints that take away from space for people. Portland has many low buildings with long footprints that act as walls. And, taller buildings would create the scale needed to lower rents.

  • March 15, 2021

    Since we are running out of room to spread out, we need to go up. I am sure all of the people that want to live downtown but can't afford it or can't find a rental will agree. It should help get the rental costs down to a more manageable level.