WILLOW CREEK — A comprehensive lodging feasibility study presented to the Board of Selectmen Tuesday confirmed what many business owners have long suspected: Willow Creek does not have enough beds for its visitors.
The study, commissioned by the town and conducted by Northern Maine Regional Planning, found that current lodging capacity — approximately 45 rooms across two motels, three bed-and-breakfasts, and a handful of short-term rentals — meets less than 20 percent of demonstrated demand.
During peak summer and fall foliage weeks, the study documented 312 declined booking inquiries in a single month, representing an estimated $187,000 in lost visitor spending.
“We are exporting tourists to Presque Isle and Houlton because we have nowhere to put them,” said Eleanor Vance. “That is money walking out the door.”
The study recommends developing a mix of lodging including a small inn or boutique hotel (30-50 rooms), expanded short-term rental regulations, and campground improvements at Farr Family Farm, where Henry Farr has expressed interest in adding RV sites.
Deb Pearson, administrative assistant, said the study will inform zoning updates now under consideration by the planning board. Any large-scale lodging development would require changes to the town’s current land-use ordinances.
The full report is available at the Carnegie Library and online through the town website.