West Scarborough: Where Marsh Meets Suburb
West Scarborough is a census-designated place within the town of Scarborough, situated along the Scarborough Marsh, the largest salt marsh in Maine. The marsh covers more than 3,100 acres and serves as a habitat for migratory birds, herons, and egrets. The Maine Audubon Society operates the Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center, offering canoe tours and educational programs during the warmer months. Route 1 runs through the area, connecting it to Portland to the north and Old Orchard Beach to the south.
Scarborough as a whole was settled in the 1630s, making it one of the oldest communities in Maine. It was raided and burned multiple times during conflicts between English settlers and the Wabanaki people. The town rebuilt each time. Today, West Scarborough functions primarily as a residential and commercial area with shopping centers, restaurants, and access to the Maine Turnpike. The Scarborough Downs harness racing track operated for decades before closing in 2020, and redevelopment plans for the site are underway.
The population of the broader Scarborough area hovers around 22,000, with West Scarborough accounting for a significant portion. Pine Point Beach and Scarborough Beach State Park draw summer visitors, and the area's proximity to Portland makes it a practical base for people working in the city.
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West Scarborough is a census-designated place within the town of Scarborough, situated along the Scarborough Marsh, the largest salt marsh in Maine. The marsh covers more than 3,100 acres and serves as a habitat for migratory birds, herons, and egrets. The Maine Audubon Society operates the Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center, offering canoe tours and educational programs during the warmer months. Route 1 runs through the area, connecting it to Portland to the north and Old Orchard Beach to the south.
Scarborough as a whole was settled in the 1630s, making it one of the oldest communities in Maine. It was raided and burned multiple times during conflicts between English settlers and the Wabanaki people. The town rebuilt each time. Today, West Scarborough functions primarily as a residential and commercial area with shopping centers, restaurants, and access to the Maine Turnpike. The Scarborough Downs harness racing track operated for decades before closing in 2020, and redevelopment plans for the site are underway.
The population of the broader Scarborough area hovers around 22,000, with West Scarborough accounting for a significant portion. Pine Point Beach and Scarborough Beach State Park draw summer visitors, and the area's proximity to Portland makes it a practical base for people working in the city.
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