Media Advisory: Governor LePage to Visit Lewiston to Tour Fire Damage

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage will travel Tuesday to Lewiston to tour fire damage to multiple buildings that has left nearly 200 people homeless in the Twin Cities. Three separate fires have occurred in the city’s downtown district in a week. Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald will accompany Governor LePage at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday at City Hall before walking downtown.

“I am committed to working with city officials and the people of Lewiston to lessen the burden of those who have been affected by these tragic events.

I commend the many firefighters and first responders who risked their lives to help get folks to safety. Miraculously, these fires did not take lives, and we are grateful for that,” he said.

“Growing up on the streets of Lewiston, I am very familiar with the buildings burned. The local effort of restaurants, retailers, community members, charities and city and state government reflects the best in Maine people. The support has been heart-warming and shows the generosity of Mainers helping to rebuild lives and the city.”

The Office of the Governor has been in contact with Lewiston Mayor Robert Macdonald to offer support. People displaced by the recent fires can attend a housing fair this Wednesday, May 8, from 1-5 p.m. at DHHS’s Lewiston office, 200 Main Street. Landlords and property managers with vacancies are asked to attend and connect with individuals and families who lost their homes. MaineHousing, Maine Department of Health and Human Services and other support agencies is hosting the fair.

The most recent fire that damaged at least three apartment buildings occurred Monday morning on Bartlett Street in downtown Lewiston. It is the third major fire in a week to hit Lewiston’s downtown area. The first fire happened on Monday, April 29, destroying three buildings on Blake, Pine and Bates streets. On Friday, another fire damaged four buildings on Bartlett and Pierce streets. Two twelve-year-old boys have been charged with arson in connection to at least two of the fires.

Governor LePage regrets not being able to be in Lewiston today. The Governor was in Fort Fairfield attending former Governor Reed’s interment.

For those who would like to help those displaced by the fires, monetary donations are being collected through the United Valley Red Cross. Anyone interested in donating may call the below number: