City of Portland, Maine

The City of Portland, Maine, is a vibrant coastal municipality located on a peninsula in Casco Bay, renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic economy. As the largest city in Maine, Portland serves as the state's economic and cultural hub, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.

Historical Overview

Portland's origins trace back to 1623 when English naval captain Christopher Levett established a settlement in Casco Bay. Over centuries, the city experienced destruction and rebuilding, including the 1775 burning during the Revolutionary War.

In 1786, citizens of Falmouth created a separate town named Portland after the Isle of Portland in England. Portland's economy was impacted by the Embargo Act of 1807 and the War of 1812.

By 1820, Maine was established as a state with Portland as its capital, though the capital moved to Augusta in 1832. In 1851, Maine passed the first state law prohibiting alcohol sales except for specific purposes, known as the Maine Law.

The Portland Rum Riot occurred in June 1855. Portland became a key ice-free winter seaport for Canadian exports after the Grand Trunk Railway to Montreal was completed in 1853.

The Portland Company on Fore Street was once the largest employer, producing over 600 steam locomotives and various engines, employing many immigrants from Canada, Ireland, and Italy.

In 1911, Portland became a major rail hub with five rail lines merging into the Portland Terminal Company. This facilitated Canadian troop movement after World War I. However, after the Grand Trunk system was nationalized in 1923, export traffic shifted to Halifax, leading to economic decline.

The construction of The Maine Mall in South Portland in 1971 economically affected downtown Portland, but revitalization began with tourism and new businesses in the Old Port area.

Geography and Climate

Portland is on a peninsula in Casco Bay, part of the Gulf of Maine and the Atlantic Ocean.

The city covers a total area of 69.1 square miles, with 21.5 square miles of land and 47.6 square miles (69%) of water. It borders South Portland, Westbrook, and Falmouth.

Portland has a humid continental climate, featuring cold, snowy winters and warm, short summers. Average high temperatures range from about 31°F in January to 79°F in July.

The area faces threats from global warming and rising sea levels. The coast is one of the fastest-warming saltwater bodies, with expected sea level increases between 10 and 17 inches by 2030 compared to 2000.

In 2022, reports indicated sea levels in Portland could rise by six inches by 2050, two feet by 2060, and up to six feet by 2100, posing risks to residents and marine life.

Cultural and Economic Landscape

Portland is known for its vibrant arts scene centered on Congress Street, hosting several institutions including the Portland Museum of Art, Portland Stage Company, Maine Historical Society & Museum, and Portland Symphony Orchestra.

The city offers many coffee shops, juice bars, distilleries, microbreweries, and brewpubs. Notable brewers include:

• D. L. Geary Brewing Company
• Gritty McDuff's Brewing Company
• Shipyard Brewing Company
• Allagash Brewing Company

The spirits industry has also experienced growth.

Portland is known for its pure tap water drawn from Sebago Lake, supplied by the Portland Water District. Sebago Lake is among the limited surface-water supplies nationwide not requiring filtration.

Government and Services

Portland operates under a council-manager government with nine city council members: five representing districts and four elected at-large. The council appoints a city manager for daily operations.

The current mayor, as of December 4, 2023, is Mark N. Dion, who has a background in law enforcement and law.

The city offers residents services including public safety, education, and recreation. Notable parks and natural spaces include:

• Baxter Boulevard
• Deering Oaks Park
• Eastern Promenade
• Western Promenade
• Lincoln Park
• Riverton Park
• Payson Park
• Post Office Park
• Baxter Woods
• Evergreen Cemetery
• Western Cemetery
• Fore River Sanctuary

Community Initiatives

Portland Downtown, a local organization, actively promotes beautification and community-building projects.

Initiatives include painting crosswalks with vibrant colors, adding artist-designed Adirondack chairs for seating, and transforming utility boxes into public art installations.

These efforts aim to enhance aesthetic appeal and foster community pride.

Location

Portland is located in Portland, ME, USA.