Governor Baldacci Weclomes Expansion of High-Tech Greenhouse Business into Maine

Governor's Press Release

MADISON, June 20, 2006 – Governor John E. Baldacci credits Pine Tree Zone incentives, low utility costs and cooperation from the town of Madison for helping to bring US Functional Foods LLC to the state of Maine. US Functional Foods will bring a new, high-tech, state-of-the-art greenhouse to Madison, which will allow fully vine-ripened tomatoes to be shipped throughout New England by November.

USFF is building a 24-acre, high-tech greenhouse facility that will be completed in September. The first phase of the project will create more than 60 new, full-time jobs and represent a capital investment in central Maine of more than $20 million.
“Being in the restaurant business, I know that you can never get good tomatoes in the off season in New England,” said Governor Baldacci. “Thanks to this project, fresh tomatoes from Madison, Maine will make their way throughout New England.”

Governor Baldacci thanked US Functional Foods (USFF), based in Carlisle, Mass., for expanding their business in Madison while presenting USFF officials with Pine Tree Zone certification today at the future site of USFF on River Road in Madison. More than 200 acres were designated as a Pine Tree Development Zone, making the facility eligible for the tax incentive program, and a $400,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) was awarded to the town of Madison for public infrastructure support of economic development in preparation of USFF’s opening.

“Attracting USFF and its business to the state was the result of a successful collaboration between local, state and private entities and we look forward to the positive benefits that will result from this partnership,” said Governor Baldacci. “The addition of USFF and its high-tech greenhouse will strengthen Maine’s reputation as a leader in the agricultural industry.”