Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Skowhegan River Park?

The Skowhegan River Park is a transformative, multi-phase project that includes:

A whitewater park with an adjustable surf and kayak wave—the only one of its kind in the Northeast;
A riverfront boardwalk, offering new opportunities for walking, gathering, and connecting with the river downtown;
A system of accessible trails, designed for walking, biking, and connecting schools, neighborhoods, and nature.

Together, these elements will create a vibrant outdoor destination that supports year-round recreation, enhances community health, and drives sustainable economic growth in central Maine.

Who is leading this project?

Main Street Skowhegan is leading the River Park initiative in partnership with the Town of Skowhegan—and as requested by the Skowhegan community. The river park, formerly known as Run of River, is named as a priority project in Skowhegan’s Comprehensive Plan, the Skowhegan Strategic Plan for Community Transformation, and the Kennebec Valley Region’s Economic Development Strategy. Outdoor recreation infrastructure investment is also a top priority of the State of Maine, as outlined in the state’s Outdoor Recreation Economy Roadmap.

In recent years, Main Street Skowhegan has championed this project in several ways:

Raised nearly $8 million to date through federal grants and donations;
Commissioned the trail master plan and architectural designs;
Launched the Skowhegan Outdoors Program, which offer free outdoor programs, whitewater trainings, and gear. The Skowhegan Outdoors program will steward the park long-term;
Committed to managing operations, programming, and maintenance of the park—not the municipality.

Our goal is to create a community asset while reducing the financial burden on taxpayers.

How is the River Park being funded?

The project is being funded through a combination of federal grants, philanthropic donations, and private fundraising led by Main Street Skowhegan.

Whitewater Park – Phase 1:

$4.89 million awarded from the federal Economic Development Administration (EDA)
$1 million in Town TIF funds (reserved since 2014 for this project; can’t be used for anything other than economic development)
$201,240 in match funds from Main Street Skowhegan
Additional fundraising is underway—led by Main Street Skowhegan

Riverfront Boardwalk:

$2 million federal HUD earmark secured by Senator Susan Collins
Approximately $1 million reserved for construction of Phase 1 (Fall 2025)
MSS will fundraise for future phases connecting downtown to the municipal building

Trails:

Trail master plan funded and completed
$25,000 secured for final design (Philbrick, Heselton Street, and Lake George Trails)
Additional fundraising underway to build wide, accessible trails for families, walkers, and bikers – Main Street Skowhegan is fundraising for trails too!

Will this increase my taxes?

Main Street Skowhegan is leading all construction and operations fundraising efforts and will not request funding through taxation. Main Street Skowhegan has worked hard to anticipate costs and line up outside funding so the project does not create a new burden on taxpayers.

The river park will bring growth to Skowhegan and the region, with more businesses opening their doors, more jobs being created, young people seeing a future here, and families building more wealth. Growth also means we have a stronger and more diverse tax base. That way, when our community does need additional municipal services or support in the future, the responsibility will be shared by more people—not shouldered by just a few. It’s about building a thriving community together, where progress benefits everyone.

This park will help redistribute the local tax burden over time by:

Attracting new visitors, residents, and businesses;
Diversifying the local economy;
Growing the tax base through increased investment and property values.

We believe a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant Skowhegan benefits everyone.

How will the river park benefit the community?

The Skowhegan River Park is an investment in our community’s future. Here’s what it means for you:

A stronger local economy: The River Park is projected to generate $16.6 million in annual impact, supporting 137 permanent jobs in Skowhegan and the surrounding region. That’s money spent at our restaurants, shops, and lodging that helps keep downtown thriving.
Stronger property values: Homes near the riverfront have already risen in value faster than the rest of town—60% growth since 2019 compared to 34% elsewhere. The River Park is expected to keep strengthening property values and attract new investment.
Opportunities for youth & families: Free outdoor programs, a gear library, and new trails will give kids and families more ways to stay active and engaged, building the skills and confidence to enjoy the outdoors close to home.
Community pride & quality of life: The River Park will connect Water Street directly to the river with a new boardwalk, create safe and accessible spaces for walking, biking, and paddling, and make Skowhegan a destination people want to visit and where residents want to stay.

We’re building a place where local kids can play and explore, businesses can thrive, and athletes can surf, paddle, and compete—right here in the heart of Skowhegan.

Who will operate and maintain the park?

Main Street Skowhegan, through our Skowhegan Outdoors Program, will operate and maintain the park. Our responsibilities will include:

Operating the adjustable wave;
Managing regular programming;
Hosting major paddling, surfing, and outdoor events;
Maintaining trails and riverfront features;
Ensuring access and safety for all users.

Our Skowhegan Outdoors program is already building access to the outdoors and will continue to engage youth and families when the park opens.

What’s the timeline for construction?

Whitewater Park Phase 1: Construction expected to begin in 2026.
Boardwalk Phase 1: Environmental review underway; construction anticipated to begin in Fall 2025.
Trail Development: Final design is happening now. Fundraising and phased construction will follow.

How can I get involved?

You can:

Donate to support our next fundraising phase;
Volunteer with Skowhegan Outdoors or at events;
Spread the word—help your neighbors understand the opportunity ahead;
Join us at River Days or outdoor programs to see the vision in action.