Portland Housing Project Faces Legal Challenge From Residents

A proposed 50-unit apartment complex in Portland’s Riverton neighborhood, known as Belfort Landing, is facing opposition from residents who have filed a lawsuit to halt or scale back the development. The dispute highlights the challenges Portland faces in addressing a housing crisis while balancing neighborhood concerns.

Neighborhood Concerns

Residents organized as “Friends of Belfort” argue the project, planned for a 1.5-acre strip of land off Forest Avenue near the Gerald E. Talbot Community School, will be too disruptive to the existing neighborhood. Key concerns include increased traffic and pedestrian safety, particularly given the proximity to the school. Erica Berry, president of Friends of Belfort, expressed concerns about increased traffic, stating, “Headlights in our windows. Cars everywhere. Nowhere for pedestrians to head. We have a school right next door.” WMTW

A traffic study cited by Friends of Belfort estimates the development will add 337 vehicles daily to the area, which residents believe is disproportionate to the size of the plot. Portland Press Herald

Developer’s Perspective

Developer Alex Coupe, of Acre Properties, maintains the project adheres to all zoning requirements and received approval from the Portland Planning Board in July 2025. He argues the housing is needed to address Maine’s housing crisis. “It’s clear that Maine is in a housing crisis. We need the housing. This is what the city wants. This is what the people want and it’s my legal right to develop this land,” Coupe stated. WMTW

Coupe also expressed frustration with the opposition, stating, “It’s unfortunate this small group of neighbors is able to try and prevent the city and the members of the community from receiving much-needed housing.” WMTW He added that those opposed to the project should have purchased the land if they had different plans for it.

Legal Battle

Following the Planning Board’s approval, Friends of Belfort filed an appeal and several civil claims against the city and Acre Properties, challenging the zoning and Coupe’s ownership rights. The group sought a preliminary injunction to pause the project pending the outcome of the case, after the developer allegedly threatened to begin construction regardless of the legal proceedings. Portland Press Herald

As of February 18, 2026, a judge’s decision on the injunction is pending. Coupe stated the project is “shovel ready.” WMTW

Support for the Opposition

Friends of Belfort is accepting donations to support their legal fund through their website: NO to Belfort Landing.