After five years since its initial proposal, the Lincoln Textile Mill in Biddeford held a groundbreaking ceremony celebrating its renovation to become new apartments and the city's first downtown hotel, according to the Press Herald.

A Kennebunkport developer is working on the intensive project, which totals $50 million and will be part of the city's great downtown revitalization following the closing of the infamous trash -to-energy company that earned Biddeford its unfortunate nickname, "Trashtown," the newspaper reported.

Mayor Alan Casavant is unsurprisingly excited about the city's new chapter.

After purchasing the Maine Energy Recovery Company's riverfront property and making room for over $100 million in new investments, city officials say.

“It’s symbolic for the ‘Biddesance’ in terms of how the community is transforming itself,” said Mayor Alan Casavant in the Press Herald, using his nickname for the city's incoming era of revitalization.

The Press Herald reports that the New and Improved Lincoln will be home to 148 luxury apartments and a boutique hotel with 33 guest suites, plus a rooftop pool and bar. The building will also include common spaces for offices and social gatherings, as well as a 11,000-square-foot Quest Fitness gym.

It's a new era for Biddeford!

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