Central Maine Residents Divided Over Proposed Amazon Site

Amazon may soon expand its footprint in Maine again, with plans being discussed for a new distribution center on the Waterville-Sidney town line.

According to city officials, Amazon is exploring the possibility of building a 159,000-square-foot delivery station near the intersection of Trafton and Junction Roads. The proposed facility would sit on about 3.6 acres in Waterville, with most of the parking area located in neighboring Sidney.

If the project moves forward, it would become the second Amazon facility in Maine. The company opened its first site in Caribou in August of 2025. Another proposed facility in Gorham has faced pushback from residents who say the development is too large for a largely residential area.

According to WGME, Waterville Mayor Mike Morris says the potential project could help stimulate growth in an underdeveloped part of the city.

“I think for us this is a great section of town that is very underdeveloped and the prospect of them moving in and bringing some infrastructure will help with additional growth in that area,” Morris said.

Developers also say the project could bring jobs to central Maine. Amazon is reportedly projecting between 150 and 250 full-time and part-time positions once operations ramp up, the news station reported.

Traffic concerns are also being addressed early in the process. Developers say most delivery trucks would use Interstate 95, located less than a half-mile away, which could help limit the impact on local roads.

Reaction from residents has been mixed. Some see the potential for economic growth and improved delivery efficiency, while others are urging officials to carefully consider the long-term impacts of a large distribution facility.

At this point, Amazon says the project is still in the early planning stages. The next step would involve developers presenting formal plans to the Waterville Planning Board for review, WGME explained.