City of South Portland

Did you catch the latest City of South Portland newsletter? You can have all the news right in the palm of your hand! Visit: https://lnkd.in/ed8FyrNP

Congratulations to the South Portland Housing Authority on the successful completion of Betsy Ross Crossing. The 52-unit building, located on Preble Street, stands tall next to the Betsy Ross House, another affordable housing facility. Betsy Ross Crossing is reserved for people 55 and older earning 60% or less of the areas median income. In addition to affordable units, the building offers a luncheon plan, resident services, activities, and a gorgeous community room with views of the water and the Greenbelt Trail. We are so happy to be a part of a community that is working to address the housing issues in Maine.

The Economic Development team had a great time attending Magnetize Maine, hosted by @propelportland at the @rouxinstitute this past Friday. It was a good opportunity to engage with other professionals, businesses, and community groups on issues and opportunities in Maine’s workforce development. With a large turnout and several dynamic panelists, it was truly a successful day of learning and connection!

Econ Dev Out & About: Taj Indian Cuisine This well-loved restaurant was founded in 2012 by Sai Guntaka and his family. After several successful years at their original spot on Gorham Road they decided they needed a larger space so they relocated to the Clarks Pond Shopping Center last August. In addition to a gorgeous interior with seats for roughly 70 people, they recently added on a spacious and comfortable patio that we were fortunate to enjoy our meal on. We know patio season is nearly over, but there are bound to be a few more sunny Fall days for you all to get out there! The menu offers an extensive selection of authentic Indian cuisine, all cooked by head-chef Hemalatha Reddy Guntaka, who also happens to be Sai's mother. Beyond the beautiful atmosphere and delicious food, Taj is dedicated to giving back to the SoPo community, often donating leftover food to local shelters and those in need. If you haven't had the opportunity to visit @taj_maine in the last 13 years, make sure to find time to do so soon!

Nominations for the Annual Business Awards wrap up November 17. This awards ceremony is meant to highlight all the businesses that make our community so special, and we need your help deciding who to recognize this year. Do you know a painter or furniture woodworker? Nominate them for Maker of the Year! Did a restaurant or shop open up in your neighborhood this past year? Nominate them for New Business of the Year! Is there a company that is creatively working to make SoPo's environment more green? Nominate them for Sustainable Business Award. Read more about the award categories this year, & nominate some businesses! ⬇️ https://lnkd.in/eQHKTeZ5 And please share this form with your friends, coworkers, and neighbors!

We wanted to highlight Julie Curran, SoPo resident and the Chair of our Economic Development Committee. She was recently recognized on @mainebiz 40 under 40 2025 list. Julie is currently the managing director for @greatfallsconst , but she has an extensive and diverse background in various different sectors. She is an advocate for affordable housing and workforce development, specifically in the trades, here in Maine. ⬇ Read more about Julie and the other #40Under40 ! ⬇ https://lnkd.in/eijVpEdX

Thanks to everyone who came out to the Building Crawl! Together you made over 500 visits to your city buildings, learned about the issues at these facilities, and shared your questions and ideas for community spaces at the proposed new City Center at Mahoney. We are compiling the feedback you shared at the events. Stay tuned for more engagement events and ways to give input this fall! And check out the newly updated project FAQ: https://lnkd.in/e7Y6Uc6x Finally, to the many local businesses that sponsored the Building Crawl: Thank you for supporting community engagement in South Portland!

Econ Dev Out and About! Last week we had the pleasure of enjoying a lunch at @willows_pizza ! This family-owned restaurant has been serving the SoPo community with delicious food for 30+ years. They have an extensive menu including pizzas, sandwiches, salads, calzones, pasta, and classic bar bites. They have a very large dine in restaurant, as well as a grab and go takeout side with beverage coolers, small tables, and casual counter service. The perfect spot for a cozy meal amongst friends 🍕 🥗 🥖