York Village revitalization effort breaks ground after years of planning
York Village to Reconfigure Historic Intersection, Move Civil War Monument, Remove Iconic Tree
York, Maine – In a comprehensive effort to modernize the heart of York Village, municipal officials announced the launch of a year‑long revitalization project that will reshape the intersection of York Street and Long Sands Road, relocate a Civil War monument, and remove a long‑standing honey locust tree.
The work began on September 28, 2026, when crews from Gorham‑based construction firm R.J. Grondin & Sons broke ground. The first tasks involved placing traffic‑control signs and cutting the existing pavement to prepare for a new “T”‑shaped layout that officials say will eliminate the confusion created by the current triangle intersection. “It was designed back when there were horse‑and‑buggies going through there, so it’s not a modern type of intersection,” Town Engineer Dean Lessard told reporters. “It’s kind of confusing for people.”
Town Manager Peter Joseph echoed the safety concerns. “It’s not a high‑accident intersection, but there’s a lot of close calls that make people feel uncomfortable, both walking and driving,” he said. “We get complaints.” Although the road will remain narrow and will not receive new bike lanes, the project will add clear pavement markings to designate shared‑lane sections for cars and cyclists. Hardscaping and new vegetation are also planned to create a more welcoming gathering place for residents and visitors, and to boost local businesses.
A centerpiece of the redesign is the relocation of a Civil War monument that was dedicated in 1906 by Governor Joshua Chamberlain. The monument will be moved roughly 25‑30 feet east of its current position into a new pedestrian plaza, complete with a plaque that explains the change. The move required state approval, because the monument’s historical significance posed legal hurdles. “It’s moving, like, 30 feet, but that was a major, major roadblock in the project,” Joseph explained.
The project has a long history of planning. Engineer Lessard said the idea dates back to the 1960s, with a formal proposal resurfacing in 2011 when he joined the town’s engineering department. Voters approved $400,000 for the work in May 2016—a 10% local match to state and federal transportation funds—but inflation since then created a shortfall of just over $100,000. Additional funding was secured, allowing the project to begin.
The redesign also calls for the removal of a honey locust tree that has grown naturally in the center of town for many decades. The tree, which residents have called a “beacon,” will be taken down early November. Conservation Commission member James Kences voiced concern: “It all starts with a tree… it will be toppled without ceremony by an individual who won’t even break a sweat, and that will be its end after many decades.” Lessard noted the tree’s invasive nature, adding that while he understands the attachment people feel, the removal is necessary for safety. “I’ve been here for a while, and I understand that people get attached to it. But unfortunately, that one tree will have to be removed for the project to make that intersection safer,” he said.
Residents’ reactions have been mixed. Some welcome the improved safety and aesthetic upgrades; others worry that the changes will alter the village’s character, particularly the loss of the cherished tree. Officials have said the project will be finished by late October 2027, about one year from the start date.
The York Village Revitalization Project represents a significant investment in the community’s future, balancing historic preservation with modern traffic demands and public safety. As the town’s engineers and residents navigate the transition, the focus remains on creating a safer, more welcoming public space at the intersection that has served York for more than a century.
