A new road in Rockland will be named after local physician Emily Mecklenburg, who was killed last fall when a schooner mast broke and fell on her.
The road, Emily’s Way, will provide access to a new affordable housing complex developed by Midcoast Habitat for Humanity and other groups.
Mecklenburg’s family has also established a fund in her memory that will support the creation of housing in the region, the Midcoast Habitat for Humanity announced on Tuesday.
After Mecklenburg’s death, friends and family recalled her as an enthusiastic person who spoke up for her patients, supported her co-workers and embraced life as much as possible. Beyond sailing, her interests included painting, going outdoors, traveling and learning foreign languages.
The road named after her will provide access to the Firefly Field development, an innovative project offering several homes and rental properties at affordable rates. The properties were built by the Midcoast Habitat for Humanity and partially funded by Homeworthy, the organization formerly called Knox County Homeless Coalition.
A dedication ceremony for the new street will be held June 8, featuring remarks from those groups and Mecklenburg’s family. A street sign will be unveiled and flowers will be planted.
“We are deeply honored to dedicate this street to the memory of Emily Mecklenburg,” said Tia Anderson, Executive Director of Midcoast Habitat for Humanity. “Her legacy will be woven into the fabric of these homes, this neighborhood, and our city, inspiring us to continue her hands-on work of caring for our neighbors and building community.”
