Bayside Trail

In a working waterfront city, Portland’s coastal downtown was its identifying feature for centuries. Meanwhile, just inland, the Bayside neighborhood received far less attention—offering very little green space or recreational opportunities. This neighborhood was also difficult to navigate on foot or bike.

This started to change in 2005, when the City of Portland purchased a 13.2-acre railroad property running through the Bayside neighborhood—from the coastal Eastern Promenade to Deering Oaks Park—just a couple of miles inland. It was the first step toward fulfilling the vision of a new Portland filled with community parks. Trust for Public Land helped bring the project from concept to reality, aiding construction and raising $1.6 million to build the Bayside Trail.

The Bayside Trail has turned a former industrial area into a livable, walkable, vibrant community hub. Today, with its pocket parks, gardens, and public gathering areas, Bayside is a focal point for community activities and growing businesses in Maine’s largest city.