PATTEN, Maine – Katahdin Trust Company, a community bank headquartered in northern Maine, is pleased to announce a significant contribution to the Tekαkαpimək Contact Station, a new facility at the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. This new facility will greatly support the growing recreation economy in the Katahdin region.
The construction of Tekαkαpimək has brought $28 million into the local economy, providing jobs and opportunities for regional contractors, businesses, artisans, Tribal members and workers across Maine.
The 7,900-square-foot building is located on a 23-acre site atop Lookout Mountain. It serves as a gateway for visitors from around the world to explore the natural and cultural wonders of the area. The contact station’s exhibits and waysides offer insights into the monument and encourage visitors to explore its diverse landscapes, including trails, rivers, and night skies.
“We’re honored to support this meaningful project that not only highlights the natural beauty of Katahdin Woods and Waters but also preserves and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Wabanaki people,” said Jon Prescott, president & CEO of Katahdin Trust Company. “We are committed to ensuring these stories and landscapes are enjoyed by future generations.”
Covering 87,563 acres in north-central Maine, Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument offers stunning views of Katahdin and the East Branch of the Penobscot River. The Bank opened its first branch in the nearby community of Patten in 1918 and is proudly named after Katahdin, the highest mountain in Maine.
Tekαkαpimək emphasizes accessibility with handicapped parking and pedestrian routes. It also features state-of-the-art green technology, including off-grid solar and thermal power, local materials, and passive heating and cooling strategies. This highlights the project’s commitment to sustainability.
Funded through a capital campaign by Friends of Katahdin Woods & Waters, Tekαkαpimək will be gifted to the American people and managed by the National Park Service.
For more information about Tekαkαpimək and Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, please visit https://www.friendsofkww.org/tekakapimek/.
Founded in 1918, Katahdin Trust is a community bank based in Houlton with more than $1.03 billion in assets and nearly 180 employees. The Bank offers financial services to individuals and businesses from 16 bank branch locations throughout northern Maine and the greater Bangor and Portland regions with a suite of digital and online banking solutions. Katahdin Trust is designated as a 2024 “Best Places to Work in Maine”, and a 2024 Best Place for Working Parents®. The parent company of Katahdin Trust, Katahdin Bankshares Corp, common stock is quoted on the OTC Markets (OTCQX) under the symbol KTHN. Learn more about the Bank at www.katahdintrust.com and follow Katahdin Trust on Facebook, X, LinkedIn and Instagram.