Reed & Reed manager supports Alden Mill Solar project

A local construction executive wrote to the editor in support of a proposed solar facility in Jay.

Darryl Coombs, business development manager for Reed & Reed Inc., submitted the letter on Sunday. He identified the proposed Alden Mill Solar project as a strong candidate for regional development.

Coombs stated that large solar installations require more than panel placement. The build demands engineering, site preparation, road construction, and electrical systems. He noted that this scope of work generates roles for equipment operators, electricians, laborers, truck drivers, and subcontractors within the state.

The Jay site holds historical weight for the town. The Androscoggin Mill operated there for generations, providing steady employment and supporting many families. Coombs acknowledged that no new development replaces the mill's legacy. However, he argued that putting the property and its existing infrastructure back into productive use is a logical step for the community.

Coombs said he expects residents to ask questions about the project. He urged the community to weigh the economic opportunities alongside potential impacts. He described Maine as a state that needs investment which puts people to work and supports local suppliers. He concluded that the Alden Mill Solar project has the capacity to meet all three of those needs.