In Ellsworth, Maine, a significant development project is underway on High Street, where Jonathan Bates’s company, Stone Park Properties, is constructing a three-story, 72-unit building initially planned as an apartment complex but later adapted to include short-term stay options to address the local housing shortage during peak tourism season. The building, costing around $10 million and spanning 50,000 square feet, will offer a mix of year-round and seasonal leases, catering to professionals, tourists, and locals in need of temporary housing.
The project is part of a broader surge in commercial and residential investment in Ellsworth, with $85.5 million invested in various projects in 2023 alone, marking a significant uptick from previous years. Other developments include a new ready-mix concrete manufacturing plant by Hughes Brothers Inc. and redevelopments by Coastal Maine General Contracting Inc., which highlight the city’s growing appeal for both commercial and residential projects.
Additionally, Arbor Camp is introducing a unique accommodation option with the construction of treehouses and cabins for short-term rentals, emphasizing sustainable development without exacerbating the housing shortage. These initiatives reflect Ellsworth’s strategic response to increasing demand for housing and commercial spaces, driven by local growth and tourism.