Revolutionary Farming Initiative in Westbrook Receives Over $59 Million in Funding for 51,000 Square Foot Hydroponic Building
In the heart of downtown Westbrook, a futuristic farming project is set to open with nearly $60 million in funding. Vertical Harvest Farms has secured $59.5 million for its 51,000-square-foot hydroponic farming building on Mechanic Street.
The financing comes from a combination of private financial companies and loans from the USDA’s Rural Development Business & Industry Loan Guarantees and Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Loans. This collaboration underscores a commitment to building communities and ensuring food security for Mainers, as stated by USDA Rural Development Maine State Director Rhiannon Hampson.
Construction on the farming project began in 2021, with an anticipated opening later this summer. The project aims to create over 60 job opportunities while utilizing hydroponic farming techniques to grow leafy green vegetables without soil, using a nutrient solution to support plant growth. This method allows for the cultivation of numerous plants in a smaller space compared to traditional farming practices that require more land.
Vertical Harvest Farms estimates that it will be able to produce 2.5 million pounds of lettuce, petite greens, microgreens, and herbs annually. Operating year-round, the farm aims to provide fresh produce to Mainers even during the winter months with a focus on delivering farm-to-fridge within 24 hours. CEO Nona Yehia expressed the company’s mission of creating locally grown, fresh, and equitable food options for all.
