A group of Sidney residents is pushing to temporarily halt plans for a proposed 159,000-square-foot Amazon distribution center near Junction and Trafton roads.
Last week, petitioners submitted hundreds of signatures calling for a special town meeting to consider a 180-day moratorium on large-scale industrial development. If approved, the pause would allow a committee to examine how projects of this size could affect Sidney’s infrastructure, environment, traffic, and overall quality of life, while also drafting regulations for future developments.
Town officials are currently verifying the signatures. If the petition qualifies, residents could vote on the moratorium as soon as this week. The measure could potentially affect the Amazon project even if local planners grant approval.
Supporters of the petition say Sidney has never encountered a development of this magnitude and lacks clear guidelines for managing large industrial projects. Concerns raised by residents include increased truck traffic, stormwater runoff, potential groundwater impacts, and changes to the town’s rural character.
While Amazon has already secured approval for the Waterville portion of the project, the proposal remains under review in Sidney. The facility is part of the company’s broader effort to expand its delivery network in rural areas. Similar projects elsewhere in Maine have generated debate over traffic, noise, and environmental impacts.
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