BAR HARBOR — Despite substantial budget cutbacks at the Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT), major projects in the Mount Desert Island area remain on track. Planning and development of a large-scale intermodal transportation facility in Trenton and major improvements to the intersection at the head of Mount Desert Island are moving full-steam ahead.

The $1.4 million project designed to improve the flow of traffic on the head of the island is on track for spring 2009 construction, said project manager Ernie Martin. The Hancock County Planning Commission (HCPC) and the town of Bar Harbor are now working with the MDOT to make aesthetic improvements to the traffic project. “This is really a chance for us to beautify the island,” said HCPC senior planner Jim Fischer.

Improvements will include flowerbeds in the traffic islands, set to be maintained by the town, expanded bike lanes, and the cleanup of old signage and bent guardrails. Local agencies also are working to design a new welcome sign to be installed at the head of the island. The MDOT is finalizing the traffic project design and expects to put it out to bid in February.

Work on the Acadia Gateway Center, a planned transportation facility and welcome center in Trenton, is also on track to begin in 2009. A joint project between the Acadia National Park and the MDOT, the center will be built on a 150-acre lot approximately two miles north of the Bar Harbor Airport on Route 3 in Trenton.

The MDOT has earmarked $9.2 million to complete phase 1 of the project. Slated for completion at the close of next year, phase 1 includes preliminary site work, a bus maintenance facility and parking for commuters and staff. Phase II will include a transit facility, office space and restrooms and is slated for completion in 2012.

In addition to area transportation projects, the MDOT and the HCPC are also working with local committees to extend the Acadia scenic byway designation into Trenton. The town has been working to bring its signage and other ordinances into compliance with scenic byway expectations.

“Trenton has done a lot to strengthen its land-use laws,” said Mr. Fisher, “with the Acadia Gateway Center coming, the timing is right to get the designation. It’s long overdue for the town of Trenton.”

He and Duane Scott of the MDOT are now working with a December deadline to file paperwork to receive the federal scenic byway designation for Route 3 in Trenton. If that deadline is not met, the plan will be submitted for state designation and will have to file for federal designation next year.

Mr. Fisher is set to report on the progress of the scenic byway extension project, issues regarding transportation at the Acadia Gateway Center and the head of the island traffic project at a Dec. 9 MDI League of Towns meeting. League members are scheduled to meet at 10 a.m. upstairs in the Bar Harbor Municipal Building. Those who wish may arrive at 8 a.m. to discuss the byway extension project with Mr. Fisher and the byway planning committee.