Press Release July 9, 2026

Maine Redevelopment Awards Maine Preservation $25,000 Grant
Augusta, Maine — The Maine Redevelopment Land Bank Authority (“Maine Redevelopment”) announced today it has awarded a $25,000 grant to Maine Preservation to support the completion of the RE-USE Toolkit (Reclaim Existing Underutilized Structures Effectively).
The RE-USE Toolkit will be an interactive, user-friendly resource designed to help communities and individuals successfully plan, assess, and carry out the adaptive reuse of historic buildings. The toolkit will feature a comprehensive guidebook, an interactive decision-making tool, case studies, and additional supplemental materials. Completion is anticipated in 2027.
This effort reflects the complementary roles of the two organizations—combining Maine Redevelopment’s expertise in returning troubled and underutilized properties to productive use with Maine Preservation’s deep knowledge of historic preservation and adaptive reuse.
Scott LaFlamme, Executive Director of Maine Redevelopment, emphasized the value of this partnership: “Many of the properties we redevelop are considered historic, so we’re excited about the development of the RE USE Toolkit and the opportunity to work alongside Maine Preservation. Our strength lies in navigating complex title issues and environmental challenges, while Maine Preservation brings unmatched expertise in preservation best practices and sustainable reuse. Together, we’re helping communities unlock the full potential of these important buildings.”
Tara Kelly, Executive Director of Maine Preservation, pointed to the need for the Toolkit:
“We field requests for technical and financial assistance from historic building stewards on a daily basis. These interactions focus not just on the physical fabric of an old building but determining a viable new use. As communities across the state confront growing populations, changing industries, and diminishing participation in civic and religious organizations, it is vital that we develop the necessary tools for Maine’s current and future residents to appropriately plan for the most successful use of our historic buildings.”

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About the Maine Redevelopment Land Bank: Maine Redevelopment was established by statute by the State of Maine as a quasi-governmental organization to partner with communities in addressing vacant, abandoned, and complex properties that are often beyond local capacity to resolve. Our mission is to partner with communities to revitalize properties and reimagine their potential for Maine’s future. Through its four core program areas, Municipal Technical Assistance, Brownfields Redevelopment, Land Banking, and Special Projects, the organization delivers the tools, partnerships, and expertise needed to move challenging properties toward productive reuse. This work helps strengthen local economies, restore property value, and support more vibrant and resilient communities across Maine.
About Maine Preservation: Founded in 1972, Maine Preservation is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving historic places, buildings, downtowns, and neighborhoods––strengthening the cultural and economic vitality of Maine communities. For more information, visit mainepreservation.org
07.06.2026 Maine Preservation Toolkit V2