The Downs, Portland, PA

The Downs Neighborhood Overview

Overview

The Downs is a master-planned, mixed-use neighborhood emerging on the historic grounds of the former Portland Speedway and Scarborough Downs racetrack in South Portland, Maine. This transformative 500-acre development represents one of the most significant urban redevelopment projects in the region, strategically located just minutes from the Portland International Jetport and the Maine Mall area. It bridges the communities of South Portland and Scarborough, creating a new urban center with a focus on walkability, sustainability, and community.

While entirely new in its current form, The Downs honors the site's legacy through preserved green spaces and adaptive reuse of some structures. The development is being built in phases, with a vision to create a complete, self-sustaining neighborhood where residents can live, work, and play. Its character is defined by modern New England architecture, wide sidewalks, interconnected trails, and a central "Main Street" featuring retail and dining, all designed to foster a strong sense of place and community from the ground up.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock at The Downs is diverse and modern, featuring newly constructed apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. The apartments and condominiums often include high-end finishes and amenities such as rooftop terraces, while the townhome and single-family offerings provide more traditional ownership opportunities with private outdoor spaces. This mix is designed to attract a wide range of residents, from young professionals and downsizers to growing families.

As a new development, real estate prices are at a premium, reflecting the high demand for new, energy-efficient homes in the Greater Portland area. The neighborhood offers a blend of market-rate and workforce housing units to promote economic diversity. The trend is one of rapid growth and appreciation, with new phases continually coming online. The mix is evolving but includes a significant portion of owner-occupied homes alongside modern rental apartment complexes, creating a balanced community.

Schools & Education

The Downs is situated within the highly regarded Scarborough Public Schools district, a significant draw for families. The neighborhood is zoned for the new, state-of-the-art Scarborough Primary School (K-2) and Scarborough Elementary School (3-5), which are just a short distance away. Scarborough Middle School and Scarborough High School, known for strong academic and extracurricular programs, serve older students.

For younger children, several private preschool and daycare options are located nearby in South Portland and Scarborough. The University of Southern Maine's Portland and Gorham campuses are within a 15-minute drive, providing access to higher education and lifelong learning opportunities. The neighborhood's master plan includes provisions for potential future educational facilities within its mixed-use zones as the community continues to expand.

Parks & Recreation

Recreation is a cornerstone of The Downs' design, with over 200 acres dedicated to parks, trails, and open space. The centerpiece is the 80-acre The Downs Arboretum, a preserved and enhanced natural area with walking paths, native plantings, and community gardens. A network of multi-use trails seamlessly connects the entire neighborhood, providing safe routes for walking, running, and biking, and eventually linking to the broader Eastern Trail system.

The development includes numerous pocket parks, playgrounds, and planned recreational facilities such as sports fields and a future community center. For water recreation, the neighborhood is just minutes from the Scarborough River, Pleasant Hill Beach, and Higgins Beach. The nearby Maine Athletic Club and other private fitness centers offer indoor options, while the open spaces within The Downs itself encourage daily outdoor activity and community gatherings.

Local Dining & Shopping

The heart of The Downs is its evolving "Main Street," where a curated mix of local and national businesses is taking shape. Early anchors include a flagship Hannaford supermarket, providing essential grocery needs, and a growing list of restaurants and cafes. Dining options range from casual breweries and coffee shops to more upscale sit-down restaurants, with a focus on featuring Maine-based purveyors and chefs.

While still developing its retail identity, the neighborhood plan includes space for boutique shops, services, and professional offices, aiming to create a true live-work-play environment. For broader shopping, the Maine Mall complex is literally across the street, offering big-box retailers and a large cinema. Residents also enjoy easy access to the culinary and retail riches of downtown Portland and the Old Port, just a short drive or bus ride away.

Who Lives Here

The Downs attracts a demographic seeking a modern, convenient, and connected lifestyle. It is particularly popular with young professionals and families who are drawn to the excellent schools, new housing, and planned amenities. The neighborhood also appeals to downsizers from the region looking for a low-maintenance, single-level home or condo in a walkable community without leaving the Greater Portland area.

The community vibe is one of intentionality and new beginnings, with residents often united by a shared choice to be part of a neighborhood being built from scratch. There is an active homeowners' association and community events designed to foster connections among neighbors. The overall population is a mix of ages and backgrounds, all drawn by the promise of a contemporary New England community with smart design, green spaces, and urban conveniences in a suburban setting.

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