RUMFORD – A huge step was taken Wednesday toward the establishment of a riverfront park and walking trails when U.S. Rep. Michael Michaud, D-Maine, announced that the Army Corps of Engineers will conduct a survey of the site and project.

“We were waiting to get this. It’s a good thing and we’re excited,” said Linda Macgregor, chairwoman of the River Park Planning Committee.

Details of funding associated with it as well as when the survey may start were not available Wednesday night.

However, Jolene Lovejoy, a Rumford selectman and one of the activists to get a portion of the former Chisholm Park restored, was thrilled with the news.

“This first giant step has been taken. We appreciate the efforts of Rep. Michaud,” she said.

According to Michaud’s press release, establishment of such a park “should help build a better economic future for the residents of Rumford. In addition to beautifying the riverfront, residents can expect more tourism and rising property values when the project is complete.”

Macgregor, Lovejoy and others involved in the project believe a park and path, proposed to extend from Morse Bridge to Memorial Bridge during the first phase, will add beauty and recreational use for both residents and visitors. They, along with DeWan Associates of Yarmouth and Main-Land Development of Livermore Falls, have been working on the project for nearly two years with the help of local and Betterment Fund grants.

Michaud’s press release said the resolution was introduced to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Passage of the resolution by the committee clears it for passage by the full House in the weeks to come.

Chisholm Park once extended from Morse Bridge to just beyond the Eagles Hall on Rumford Avenue. Over the years the park became overgrown due to lack of care and the changing needs of the community.

eadams@sunjournal.com

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