Lewistons Maine MILL museum plans approved by Planning Board [Video]

LEWISTON — A $13.5 million new home for the Maine Museum of Innovation, Learning and Labor on Beech Street was approved by the Planning Board on Monday, with construction scheduled to begin this fall.

The project will renovate and expand the historic Camden Yarns Mill along the Androscoggin River into an 11,000-square-foot museum, gallery and event space that officials hope will become a tourist draw in Lewiston.

The Maine MILL has been inching toward the new location for years as the organization works to raise the funding and support for the work. The former Museum L-A announced a rebranding to Maine MILL in early 2023, part of a long-term plan to build a new museum and redefine the mission and vision of the organization.

“We are delighted with the approval and appreciate the Planning Board’s support of this important project,” said Maine MILL Executive Director Rachel Ferrante on Tuesday.

During the Planning …