“Don’t it always seem to go / That you don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone / They paved paradise, put up a parking lot.”
— Joni Mitchell
The waterfront at Mitchell Field is our own piece of paradise. It’s even got a building that could further the community’s experience. There is value in preserving a part of Harpswell’s history, with the administration building easily becoming a recreation center. While built by the Navy to withstand Category 4 hurricanes, with exterior work and some interior improvements, this building could serve Harpswell for many more years.
A very flexible, multiuse structure would meet many of the needs suggested by studies, surveys and other data-gathering exercises. We offer an architect’s design to help envision some of the many possibilities. See bit.ly/mitchellfieldadminbuilding.
Nearby bathrooms with showers and changing rooms would enhance beach usage and support the new boat ramp. A large covered area could be used as rain backup for summer bandstand concerts and provide shaded picnic or event space. Wouldn’t it be great to not have to cancel summer concerts or have to move them somewhere else?
Indoor space could be used by formal and informal community groups. Imagine, too, a children’s playground and a visitor area with visuals showcasing Harpswell’s fishing heritage, its history, and its marine ecosystem. What better place to use bicycles, kayaks, canoes? With 119 acres at Mitchell Field, nearby parking would be easy to accommodate. Funding through grants and individual contributions is feasible.
There has been talk of tearing this building down. Should that happen, we forever lose the opportunity to use this uniquely located facility with huge potential. Wouldn’t you rather see Harpswellians enjoying this dynamic building with its beautiful views rather than parked cars?
We welcome community input, support and participation in this effort.
Elaine Baur
Philip Conner
Kathy D’Agostino
Bob Gaudreau
LeAnne Grillo
Harpswell Neck Library Association
Lili and John Ott
Dorothy Rosenberg
(All Harpswell residents)
