U.S. Department Of Commerce Invests $2.5 Million For Recreational Upgrades To Boost Tourism At Big Rock Maine

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.5 million grant to Big Rock, Mars Hill, Maine, to boost tourism by supporting ski lift and snow making capacity in Big Rock. This grant is funded by the American Rescue Plan.

This project will help make ski lift improvements and increase snow making capacity to boost the local tourism industry by bringing new visitors to the city, its businesses, and attractions. This EDA grant will be matched with $634,700 in local funds and is expected to create 11 jobs, retain 44 jobs and generate $2 million in private investment, according to grantee estimates.

BigRock Mountain is located in Mars Hill, Maine, on the western face of Mars Hill. It is one of the larger ski resorts in the State of Maine with 2 chairlifts, 26 trails, 80% snowmaking, night skiing, and almost 1000 ft of continuous vertical drop.

Most of the terrain at BigRock is intermediate ski trails, serviced by the North Star Double Chair, a modified Mueller chairlift. The mountain is also serviced by a poma. The beginner area is serviced by the South Star Triple Chair. Of the trails, 58% are intermediate, while 30% are advanced trails, and 18% beginner trails.

Established in the 1960s, BigRock Ski Area was purchased in 2000 by the Maine Winter Sports Center (MWSC) through grants available from the Portland-based Libra Foundation. MWSC added cross-country and snowshoe trails, as well as a snow-tube park. BigRock's lodge has been expanded to include a new cafe.

“President Biden recognizes the vital contribution the travel and tourism industry makes to the American economy,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “This EDA investment underscores the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to helping this critical sector not only recover from the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic but build back stronger and more equitably for the future.”

“The Economic Development Administration plays an important role in supporting community-led economic development strategies designed to boost coronavirus recovery and response efforts,” said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. “This EDA investment will help enhance the region’s tourism industry and showcase the incredible outdoor recreational opportunities in Big Rock.”

“Big Rock Mountain is a powerful economic engine for Aroostook County, contributing to the local economy and supporting jobs, small businesses, and rural communities,” said Senator Susan Collins. “To help ensure Big Rock can continue to serve visitors for many years to come, the ski area is working to improve its facility by replacing its 50-year-old ski lift and expanding snow making capabilities. With the U.S.-Canadian border now open and tourism rebounding, this federal investment in the ski area’s infrastructure is especially welcome and well timed.”

“Big Rock is a huge economic driver for Northern Maine that attracts from visitors from around the region and Canada and has enjoyed the support of the local community who always understood the value of this central Aroostook treasure,” said Senator Angus King. “With this significant funding, Big Rock will be able to modernize their operations and equipment, extend their season, and welcome even more skiers to the mountain. I look forward to seeing the improvements Big Rock will make with this funding and how their investments will bring significant benefits to the region for years to come.”

This project is funded under EDA’s $240 million competitive American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation program. EDA awarded $510 million in 2021 to all 50 states and territories. The two programs are designed to accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors. Effective May 26, 2022, EDA has officially closed all of its American Rescue Plan programs for applications. The $3 billion program funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through September 30, 2022.