By Emma Bouthillette
Staff Writer
Kennebunkport has restaurants, shopping and waterfront views to attract tourist, but until last week, no public restrooms.
Kennebunkport residents and business owners gathered June 5 in the Dock Square parking lot to close the door on this uncomfortable oversight.
The restrooms are open daily May through October, weekends in November and during the Prelude, Dec. 5 to 31. The hours of poperation are in conjunction with the hours of the parking lot.
Town Manager Larry Mead said while there has been more than 20 years of discussion, the planning of this facility began in the fall of 2006. The building was approved in November 2007.
“I think that there has been discussion whether or not this was a town responsibility or a responsibility of the chamber of commerce and business community. As it has evolved, other communities have provided similar facilities and it was decided that it was a public need of the town,” Mead said.
Dock Square Coffee House owner Sandy Tynik had a table of pastries and coffee set up in celebration of the opening.
“This has been a long time coming, and much needed,” Tynik said.
Selectman Chairman Mat Lanigan agreed with Tynik.
“This project was 30 years in the making and is something for such a basic need,” Lanigan said.
He asked key people involved with the planning and production of the restrooms to join in cutting the ribbon.
“A lot of people dedicated time, material and labor to make this building look so nice,” Lanigan said.
Kennebunkport’s Code Enforcement Officer Brian Shaw was given a pair of giant scissors to cut through the red ribbon held on either end by Audrey Williamson and Mike McGrath.
“I was given the task to bring this together. This was the fourth design of the building because the others weren’t pretty enough,” Shaw said.
McGrath, Kennebunkport resident and volunteer firefighter, built the facility.
Tucked behind the stores of Dock Square, the restrooms were constructed to the side of the parking lot entrance. An awning covers the entrances for those who have to wait on rainy days or need to seek shade from the hot sun. Between the doors clearly labeled “Men” and “Women” there is a water fountain. The restrooms have a stall and sink with running water and will be maintained regularly by a cleaning company.
“This is definitely a needed addition to the town,” McGrath said.
After the ribbon cutting, people were able to check out the restrooms.
“I haven’t heard anything but positive feedback. Residents are saying the public restrooms look better than expected. They are pleased that it is done and they are pleased with the outcome,” Lanigan said.