How We Work

Ogunquit, Maine and the Marginal Way - A Partnership That Works

The Marginal Way is owned by the Town of Ogunquit. As outlined in the Town Charter, the Town is responsible for its maintenance and preservation. In support of these efforts, the Town of Ogunquit collaborates closely with the Marginal Way Committee—whose volunteers identify and recommend restoration, repair, and beautification projects—and the Marginal Way Preservation Fund, a nonprofit entity that raises dedicated funds to help finance these initiatives. This cooperative structure ensures that the Marginal Way remains a cherished coastal asset for both residents and visitors.

  • The Marginal Way Preservation Fund (MWPF) is a nonprofit organization committed to preserving and enhancing the Marginal Way. Relying on generous donations from the Marginal Way community, MWPF builds an endowment that is strategically invested to generate income for restoration, repair, and beautification projects.

    To ensure funds are allocated effectively, the MWPF’s Appropriations Committee carefully reviews project requests, assessing initial supporting documents and granting final approval upon project completion. While the MWPF collaborates with the Town of Ogunquit, it operates independently, with its mission and purpose defined and governed by a dedicated Board of Directors. 

  • The Marginal Way Preservation Fund (MWPF) is governed by a duly elected Board of Directors, which appoints Executive Officers and various committees to manage the Fund’s operations.

    To ensure responsible oversight, the Board has established several committees, including Development, Finance, Investment, and Disbursement. These committees manage fundraising campaigns, financial accounting, endowment investments, and funding allocations for Marginal Way projects. Importantly, all initiatives are subject to final approval by the Board of Directors.

  • Funds raised by the Marginal Way Preservation Fund are allocated according to legal requirements and the specific fundraising campaign. Campaigns fall into two categories: restricted and unrestricted. Restricted Campaigns: 100% of proceeds go directly to the endowment. Unrestricted Campaigns: Funds support various aspects of the organization, including operational expenses, operational reserves, and contributions to the endowment.

  • The Marginal Way Committee (MWC) identifies and recommends restoration, repair, and beautification projects for the Marginal Way. These recommendations are presented to the Town Manager and/or the Select Board for consideration and implementation.

  • The Town Manager, authorized by the Select Board, reviews and/or initiates project funding requests, submits them to the MWPF Appropriations Committee, and provides documentation for final project accounting. The Town Manager may delegate these responsibilities to others with proper authorization.

  • The Town of Ogunquit owns the Marginal Way and is responsible for its maintenance and any necessary repair work on the path. This effort is supported by the Marginal Way Committee and the Marginal Way Preservation Fund (MWPF). The Marginal Way Committee identifies projects that enhance the aesthetics and safety of the Marginal Way and submits recommendations directly to the Select Board. Through a grant process, the Town of Ogunquit can collaborate with the MWPF to secure funding for renovation projects aimed at preserving and maintaining the Marginal Way.

  • The relationship between the Marginal Way Preservation Fund (MWPF), the Marginal Way Committee (MWC), and the Town of Ogunquit is a collaborative and effective partnership. This informal public-private partnership is dedicated to preserving, maintaining, and enhancing the Marginal Way for the benefit of the community. Each entity plays a distinct role while working together to ensure the long-term care of this treasured landmark.

  • The Marginal Way Community comprises a diverse group of members united by their shared commitment to preserving the Marginal Way. This community includes frequent walkers of the Marginal Way, devoted to its conservation, as well as Ogunquit taxpayers, property owners along the Marginal Way, businesses in Ogunquit and surrounding regions, the Town of Ogunquit, and other non-profit organizations. Each member plays a vital role in supporting the mission of the Marginal Way Preservation Fund (MWPF), collectively working together towards the common goal of safeguarding this cherished coastal gem.