Pictured is the groundbreaking crew for the reconstruction of the federally funded Height of Land project (with state and local support): (left to right) Rep. Charles Harlow, local Rep. Jarrod Crockett, Department of Conservation’s Alan Sterns, Rep. Sheryl Briggs, RLHT president Ed Kfoury, Governor John E. Baldacci, Andrea Quaid of Rep. Michaud office, Karen Staples of Senator Snowe’s office, Carleen Trembley of Senator Collins office and Larry Johannesman of MDOT . (David Hart photo) OQUOSSOC — Last Saturday was a very big day in the Rangeley Lakes community. It was a day where local businesses, residents, local and state officials and congressional representatives all gathered to celebrate some milestone achievements.

Hundreds gathered to acknowledge conservation efforts and break ground for the re-construction of the Height of Land overlook. HOL is a significant scenic icon located off Route 17 in Township D.

Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust president Ed Kfoury (right) and Governor John E. Baldacci talk during the ground breaking celebration for the Height of Land reconstruction project last Saturday. (David Hart photo) Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway, coordinated locally by Rebecca Kurtz with the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust, and the Maine Department of Transportation announced $2.9 million in federal support to reconstruct over one mile of the HOL stretch.

The national scenic overlook that lifts visitors off their feet with stunning views of the mountains and Mooselookmeguntic Lake will be moved approximately 15 feet to the east to include safer parking, better viewing, greater access to the nearby Appalachian Trail and interpretive signage. Picnic areas with stone tables, small outbuildings and impressive landscaping will also be included.

By moving the turnout to the left, vehicles will be able to enter from both sides of the road and parked cars will no longer obstruct views from those who wish to capture one of Maine’s most beautiful views while passing by. Better drainage and erosion control is also included in the design plans.

“What a great thing you guys have all done. I’m so impressed,” said Governor John E. Baldacci.

“I know it took a lot of hard work and a lot of organizations at different levels of government to all work together.”

Baldacci recognized the Height of Land as one of the most scenic byways and views in Maine. “This is something that people will want to look at for a long period of time,” he explained. “What we have here is the ability to draw people together to get things accomplished that can’t get done anywhere else… It happens from the grassroots up.”

Baldacci also commended the state delegation for its contributions in Washington.

“It could not be done without the federal support which was critical to get this project done and state support through the Land for Maine Future program… We also could not do it without the private support of everybody working together and raising funds and showing the local commitment to protect the local resources,” Baldacci said.

“Congratulations, great job and I’m here to celebrate this with you,” the governor said.

The project, which was awarded to Pike Industries, is expected to start in a couple of months and will employ nearly 100 people. It is expected to take 12 to 18 months to complete.

This project, still in need of $250,000 in funding, is part of a land conservation campaign and investments nearing $5 million.

It has been in the works for over a decade and members of RLHT can now see the light at the end of the tunnel for this stretch of natural treasure.