Nonprofit planning to study cost of restoring historic Maine fort

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — A nonprofit organization is planning to commission a study to look into the cost of restoring a Civil War-era fort in Portland that would also outline how repairs would be carried out.

The Portland Press Herald (http://bit.ly/1db2KEU) reported that Fort Gorges, a stronghold located between the Portland peninsula and Peaks Island, needs to be restored in order to remain a notable historic landmark.

Paul Drinan, the new executive director of Friends of Fort Gorges, said this is the group's first — and possibly last — chance to preserve the fort.

He said the feasibility study is expected to cost about $180,000 and that renovation costs would probably be in the millions.

A private fundraising campaign has been launched and Drinan said the group will seek out grant and foundation support.