MEDIA ROOM

Rapid Growth in Rafting Provides Opportunities in Madison

Madison is building business on the banks of the Kennebec.

The Raft Maine Association, comprised of the state's leading whitewater rafting companies, recently announced an increase in passengers during the 2007 season and commented that the growth was likely to continue. With the majority of rafting companies in the state located in Somerset County along the Kennebec River, just minutes away from Madison, there are opportunities for businesses and rafting enthusiasts alike.

The increase in rafters can translate into an increased need for associated services, such as restaurants, hotels, outdoor and rafting gear shops, and transportation. Many people are looking for vacation packages and locations that can offer activities for multiple excursions. These might combine planned or do-it-yourself programs including outdoor recreation of various types - think rafting, fishing, and hiking, or outdoor adventure with cultural pursuits like antiquing, art galleries, concerts and fine dining.

Madison's location on the Kennebec, just a few miles from I-95 and major rafting companies, offers vacationers an accessible getaway where they can pursue rafting and other nearby amenities like hiking and cycling trails, scenic drives, and more.

In addition, the town's welcoming attitude towards business, TIF (Tax Increment Financing programs) and state-sponsored workforce training programs provide added incentives for companies looking to take advantage of the boom in the rafting business and offer even more amenities to the growing rafting clientele.

Businesses seeking to expand or bring operations can take advantage of Madison Business Gateway, a business park with several lots still available that are ready to help your business become a success. Additional plans to revitalize the downtown area are underway and main streets are perfect locations for restaurants, shops and boutique hotels looking to capture the charm of the New England village and capitalize on foot traffic (both via car, foot and bike) from out-of-state and in-state tourists alike.

Tourists and new businesses aren't the only ones who can take advantage of the nearby rafting opportunities. Madison's location on the river means that residents can enjoy fantastic recreational opportunities in their own backyard.

People who live and work in Maine, regardless of whether they are native Mainers or "from-away," work hard and love to take advantage of the beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities like rafting, that abound in the state.

"Few people and places these days can boast of their homes, work, school and favorite places to play being within a short walk or drive - but folks in Madison continue to enjoy this quality of place and I invite new businesses, residents, and visitors to join us."

~ Norman Dean, Town Manager