Congressman Mike Michaud

“I am pleased that the Federal Transit Administration has released this funding,” said Michaud.  “It will allow the Island Explorer to invest in alternative fuel vehicles for use in Acadia National Park.  This funding complements the important investments made in the intermodal facility to relieve seasonal congestion and preserve the Acadia National Park experience.”

The Island Explorer is a seasonal, transportation system that connects the campgrounds and motels on Mount Desert Island with the business districts of the gateway communities and most visitor destinations in Acadia National Park.  The Island Explorer is a nationally recognized propane-powered bus system which has made a significant impact reducing the effects of congestion and pollution in Acadia National Park and surrounding Mount Desert Island. Since service began in 1999 more than 2 million passengers have been carried; more than 700,000 vehicles have been removed from park and local roads; and 10.4 tons of smog-causing pollutants have been eliminated, along with over 6,600 tons of greenhouse gases.

The Acadia National Park Improvement Act, a bill that Michaud authored, became public law on May 8, 2008 as a part of S. 2739, the Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008.  Passage of the bill made important changes and updates to the statute controlling the operation of Acadia National Park. Among other provisions, the bill allows for additional federal participation and improvements to the Island Explorer bus system.

9/28/2008 1:12:10 PM