The Sixth Annual BikeMaine Ride in Aroostook County Provided a $742,000 Economic Boost
Dec. 18, 2018 (PORTLAND, Maine) – On Tuesday, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine released the economic impact from its sixth annual BikeMaine event – Acadia in the St. John Valley – that took place Sept. 8 – 15, 2018.
Since its inaugural ride in 2013, BikeMaine has pumped more than $3.1 million into Maine’s local economy. This year’s sold-out ride in northern Aroostook County contributed $742,000 in statewide direct economic impact, including $455,000 spent by riders beyond their event registration fees, and $287,000 spent by the Coalition to produce the event, which includes most meals for the participants. This represents a 12% increase over the $660,000 in economic impact generated by BikeMaine 2017.
“BikeMaine continues to fulfill its mission of using bicycle tourism as an economic development tool for Maine,” said Ride Director MaryBeth Luce. “As much as possible, food – the event’s single largest expense – is purchased from Maine farmers, lobstermen, and growers, highlighting Maine products and local services.” Once again, more than 70% of food was purchased within 75 miles of the event region, providing not only an economic boost to providers, but also healthy and ultra- local food for event participants.
In addition to its concentration on locally sourced food, BikeMaine is committed to keeping an eye on its environmental impact. During the 2018 event, more than three tons of food waste were diverted from landfills through the Bicycle Coalition of Maine’s partnership with Agri-Cycle, New England’s premier food waste collection service. All eating utensils, plates, and cups used during breakfast and dinner service were compostable, which further reduced the event’s environmental impact. Greater composting and recycling strides are planned for 2019.
BikeMaine is proud to have formed key partnerships with Maine businesses such as Agri-Cycle, L.L.Bean, and Maine Beer Company, as well as many other valued sponsors and partners.