Bangor, Maine News Update: July 21, 2021

A historic covered bridge in Littleton was destroyed by fire yesterday. The Watson Settlement Bridge was the only covered bridge in Aroostook County, and one of only nine covered bridges in Maine. Now, the State Fire Marshall’s office will work to determine how the fire started.

The Maine Turnpike Authority is proposing a rate increase for interstate tolls to help offset $60 million it says it lost during the pandemic. Of the $17 million that could possibly be raised by the increase, about 70% of the cost would be covered by out-of-state motorists.

The Federal government is making $200 million available for logging businesses that were hurt by the pandemic. The Loggers Relief Act was co-authored by Senator Susan Collins and Representative Jared Golden, who say they’re ready to help constituents navigate the application process.

Maine’s rainy-day fund has hit an all-time high. Governor Janet Mills says an additional $223 million has been deposited into the Budget Stabilization Fund, bringing the total to nearly $492 million dollars. She says this puts Maine in a good position to continue its economic recovery.

Golfers are still needed for the Heroes, Hope, Healing McDonald’s Golf Classic coming up on August 23rd at Bangor Muni. Proceeds from the event support the Ronald McDonald House Charities and underwrite the cost of Camp Hope, which serves children who have been treated for cancer.

The Christopher Columbus replica ship that canceled a visit to Bangor after some residents protested its appearance in Maine, is staying a little longer than expected. The Nao Santa Maria was due to leave Castine over the weekend, but will now stay until at least Sunday. Tours of the historic ship will continue all week.