Dear friends,

On May 20, the Portland City Council voted in favor of the PMA’s request to reclassify 142 Free Street as a noncontributing structure within the Congress Street Historic District.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all who have actively participated in the vibrant discussions surrounding the proposed new wing at the PMA. Your engagement, insight, leadership, and commitment to the betterment of our community are inspirational. 

To the dedicated members of the Portland City Council, we express our sincere thanks for your unwavering service to our city. Your thoughtful deliberation and decision-making process have been invaluable in guiding us forward.

With the reclassification of 142 Free Street to noncontributing, we recognize that there are many steps yet to be taken as we continue to navigate the process of building a new wing. However, we approach these challenges with a spirit of optimism, knowing that together, we can overcome any obstacles that may arise.

Throughout this process, we have gleaned invaluable lessons and insights, maintained positivity, an open mind, and encouraged constructive dialogue. We are committed to working thoughtfully and collaboratively with organizations such as Maine Preservation, Friends of Congress Square, Greater Portland Landmarks, the Planning Boards of the City of Portland, the Mayor, the Portland City Council, and our wider communities.

We acknowledge the importance of sharing and preserving the rich history of our properties while simultaneously embracing progress and innovation. 

142 Free Street stands as a catalyst for a brighter future, ensuring that Congress Square remains a sustainable hub for arts and culture. The Blueprint project represents not just a physical expansion, but a symbolic commitment to the revitalization of our beloved city of Portland, Maine. 

We envision a future in which the old and the new coexist harmoniously, in alignment with Portland’s Plan 2030. By developing 142 Free Street, we aim to reinvigorate the arts district, stimulate economic growth, and enrich the cultural tapestry of our city.

The development of 142 Free Street marks the primary objective of a multi-phased plan to enhance the PMA campus. Guided by the innovative designs of LEVER Architecture, led by the visionary Chandra Robinson, we are committed to creating a space that is both sustainable and inclusive. The use of mass timber (a revolutionary and energy-efficient wood product that draws from sustainably harvested forests) as the main building material for the new wing will pay homage to our shared history and indigenous lands, while also creating an economic innovation hub, spurring the lumber industry in Maine. It is imperative that we actively engage with all segments of our community, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and represented within our museum. 

Just as our city has experienced unprecedented growth, so too has our museum. Our aging facilities no longer meet the evolving needs of our communities. The development of 142 Free Street is not merely about expanding physical space; it is about creating opportunities for engagement, education, and inspiration. 

We are heartened by the overwhelming support we have received from our neighbors, local businesses, and cultural institutions. Together, we can breathe new life into Congress Square, just as we did in 1982 when the I. M. Pei-designed Payson building replaced the Libby Building. 

This project is not just about bricks and mortar; it is about building a more equitable, sustainable, and vibrant future for all. Our intention is to replace a building that has been irreparably compromised, make it a landmark for future generations, and steward our other landmark-designated buildings towards unification.

As we embark on this transformative journey, we remain guided by our mission of Art for All and our core values of Equity, Sustainability, Trust, Courage, and Service. It is our collective responsibility to ensure this project reflects our community's diverse voices and aspirations.

We recognize that a project of this magnitude requires dedication, collaboration, and vision. We are immensely grateful to all who have contributed to this endeavor thus far, and we invite each and every one of you to join us as we embark on this exciting new chapter in the history of the Portland Museum of Art. 

Sincerely,

Mark H.C. Bessire
Judy and Leonard Lauder Director