Involving the local Passamaquoddy Tribe and some of their lands, the LNG issue has split the town down the middle with much passion on both sides. One side is eager for any development or new industry while the opposition believes it’s too dangerous to both the people of the area and the environment. Adding to the contention is the fact that the tankers would have to navigate through Canadian waters as well. The Canadians have voiced opposition to the plan due to safety and fisheries issues. To date, some land has been sold, the Federal Environmental Regulatory Commission (FERC) is holding hearings, town votes have been taken and the two opposing developers, Quoddy Bay and Downeast LNG, are vying for local favor.

Another project proposed by the Passamaquoddy Tribe is the racino resort. This recreational destination would provide slot machines and other amenities to its patrons. This idea has been attempted before with an unsuccessful end. Will this attempt come to fruition? Again, this could be a difficult call. With Maine’s current governor and his distaste for gambling in Maine, the bill pushed through the legislature was ultimately vetoed. This will send the measure to referendum this November where the people of the state will decide on the racino’s viability.

Some of Eastport’s other assets are a little known state park, Shackford Head. It sits adjacent to the town and while a small park, it provides a wonderful panoramic view of the open ocean and Maine’s classic rocky shore. While not directly in Eastport, there are two higher education institutes available for the locals. The Washington County Community College in Calais and the University of Maine at Machias both offer local higher education opportunities. The new Coast Guard Station in town has been a positive presence as well.

Finally, one of the best assets for Eastport and the region would be the people. That renowned Downeast determination and perseverance have and will serve the region well.
Town Manager Bud Finch speaks of a quiet, non-publicized 12 year development plan that Eastport has been plugging away at. This plan was responsible for the Coast Guard Station and some of the downtown renovations that have been made. It’s been a slow process and there is plenty left to be done but, as Bud puts it, the town is “choosing its own path.” And it is happy doing so.

So what does the future hold for Eastport? Will LNG take hold or be driven out? Will a racino resort finally be built, and if so, and will people come? Can Eastport successfully market itself to attract a stronger tourism base and still preserve its wonderful character? How does a town that feels so left behind begin to catch up, and in what ways? Further more, just how is economic success defined in the rocky coast town of Eastport – by staying small, self-sustaining and insular, or branching out to the rest of Maine and the world?