Biddeford drops appeal on UNE's Saco River pier project
Biddeford Ends Appeal Against University of New England Research Pier Project
The city of Biddeford announced today that it is dropping its appeal against a proposed research pier for the University of New England (UNE), citing doubts that it can successfully challenge the latest approval granted by the Saco River Corridor Commission.
Biddeford had previously contested the Commission’s decision to approve the pier, arguing that the project could harm local ecosystems and disrupt commercial activity on the Saco River waterfront. The appeal process, which involved legal filings and public hearings, had stalled after the Commission issued its final approval in the spring.
In a statement issued by the city council, officials said they concluded that the Commission’s authority in this matter is strong and that further legal action would likely be ineffective. The council also noted that the pier’s construction could provide valuable research opportunities for UNE’s marine science programs, potentially benefiting the broader region.
The Saco River Corridor Commission, which oversees development and environmental protection along the 45‑mile stretch of the Saco River, has a long record of balancing economic growth with ecological stewardship. Its approval of the UNE pier was based on a review of environmental impact studies and compliance with state and federal regulations.
Biddeford’s decision to end the appeal means the city will no longer seek to halt the pier’s construction. The commission’s approval remains in force, and UNE is expected to begin building the pier in the coming months, pending final permits and funding arrangements.
The move is expected to streamline the project’s progress and reduce litigation costs for all parties involved. Local residents and environmental groups have expressed mixed reactions, with some welcoming the potential scientific benefits and others remaining concerned about possible impacts on the river’s wildlife and recreational use.
