Vision Statement

When we picture SWH in 2030, this is what we hope it will be like:


Southwest Harbor is a vibrant, small year-round community with a healthy local economy characterized by individual initiative and entrepreneurship.  Marine services, fishing, boat building, recreational boating, and tourism continue to be important sources of employment and income.  Many people are self-employed. The town continues to be a diverse mix of people of different ages and backgrounds who choose to live here, year-round or seasonally, and who are active participants in community life and town affairs.  Residents continue to place a high value on good education while finding innovative ways to make it affordable.  The cost and administration of some other essential public services are shared with neighboring communities and may continue to be led by private non-profit local organizations, such as the library and the ambulance service.  Quality of place, rooted in our harbor, Acadia National Park, and our history, is maintained and enhanced by thoughtful development that maintains the modest, small-town look and feel while protecting our water supplies, wildlife, views, and traditional public access to the outdoors.  Roads, bike lanes, sidewalks, and paths are in place and make walking and biking safe for residents and tourists.  Innovation and initiative have made Southwest Harbor a more unified and sustainable community for all.  ​

Comprehensive Plan 1996 Volume 1               Comprehensive Plan 1996 Volume 2                  Comprehensive Plan 2010