Editing Biddeford, Maine (section)

==Economy==
[[File:Biddeford-Saco town line.jpg|thumb|The old mills of Biddeford]]
Biddeford is one of Maine's fastest-growing commercial centers, due to its close proximity to the [[Seacoast Region (New Hampshire)|Seacoast Region]] of New Hampshire and to northern Massachusetts. In recent years, strip malls have developed along the [[Maine State Route 111|State Route 111]] corridor. In late 2006, a {{convert|500000|sqft|m2|adj=on}} shopping center known as The Shops at Biddeford Crossing opened, with 20 stores and five restaurants.

Recent interest in revitalizing the downtown area has brought new life to the old mills. The North Dam Mill is one example of this movement offering retail stores, art studios, cultural events, and upscale housing.

Biddeford is home to large institutions including MaineHealth Maine Medical Center Biddeford and the [[University of New England, Maine|University of New England]], a fast-growing school located along the coast which includes Maine's only medical school, the [[University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine]].<ref>City of Biddeford website. http://www.biddefordmaine.org/</ref> Telecommunications company [[GWI.net]] is headquartered in the city. The city also possesses a wide array of community facilities including public beaches, an ice arena, a full-service [[YMCA]], and one school which has been recently recognized as a [[Blue Ribbon Schools Program|National School of Excellence]].