Contractors working at Saint Croix Island International Historic Site in Red Beach are nearing completion of staff housing located on the second floor of the ranger station. "Construction began slowly last November, but we're rounding third and heading for home," said Meg Scheid, Site Manager of the National Park Service facility.
Border Electric, a local contractor, won the construction bid and along with a variety of subcontractors including King Construction of Machias, is working on finishing touches. "Winter didn't seem to hamper the progress or spirts of the workers," Scheid said, "though parking proved challenging at times with all the snow!" Park staff is scheduled to move in shortly before the visitor center opens on May 16.
The contract for the two bedroom 720 square foot apartment is valued at $172,000 and called for in the site's Facilities Development Plan, which was completed with public input in 2009. Implementation of the plan began in 2010 with construction of the ranger station, where the visitor center is housed. The adjacent maintenance building was completed the following year.
Saint Croix Island International Historic Site is one of three national park units in Maine, and the only international historic site of more than 400 units within the national park system. Next year, the service will celebrate 100 years.
Questions about the housing project can be directed to MegScheid at 207-454-3871.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
