Amazon's Gorham Facility Faces Delays and Disputes Over Traffic and Environmental Concerns
Amazon received Gorham Planning Board approval for its proposed warehouse and distribution center last week, but three required state and federal permits remain outstanding. The facility is expected to create 3,000 daily trips by trucks, vans, and cars.
The Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT) is waiting for Amazon's revised traffic impact study before issuing a traffic movement permit. According to MDOT spokesperson, the company's initial study was incomplete. The department plans to issue the permit within 120 days of completion.
Amazon has proposed widening Main Street in front of the site and introducing signaling improvements at the intersection of Mosher Road (Route 237) and Main Street. Westbrook Mayor David Morse is concerned about additional traffic through the city, stating that 'Westbrook residents and taxpayers should not be left to shoulder that burden.'
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection expects to issue a decision on Amazon's application by Monday, September 21st. The facility would impact 34,918 square feet of freshwater wetlands.