LUBEC — Behind the long-neglected store fronts in the business district on Water and Commercial streets lies the promise of a revitalized community.

That vision, developed two years ago as the Lubec: 2001 plan by the Chamber of Commerce, is not dead, as evidenced by the interest shown at a recent planning meeting attended by 35 residents and area business operators.

The Lubec: 2001 project includes a plan to replace the American Can Plant with a breakwater. The plant property is owned by the town.

The waterfront structure has been slowly caving in for the past two years. Under a proposal discussed in April, studies would be conducted to identify possible uses for the debris created by the plant’s demolition.

Other possible projects include developing a sheltered marina near the present town pier. Despite its commercial fisheries industry, Lubec does not have a single facility offering fuel and other services to its fishermen.

Also possible are the development of a commercial ferry terminal and the realignment of roads at the Federal Building intersection near the Roosevelt-Campobello Memorial Bridge to entice more visitors going to or coming from Campobello Island, New Brunswick to visit downtown Lubec.

The same study that would look at potential uses for the American Can plant would include an evaluation of how fishing and commercial use of the Water Street area will affect business development downtown.

“These studies will help us move from the ideals set forth in the chamber’s vision into reality,” Lubec Town Office Manager Mark Decoteau said after the meeting. “It makes sense to consolidate our ideas into one plan so the projects can complement each other.”

The town, meanwhile, is applying for a $30,000 Community Development Block Grant for downtown planning. Supporters of the downtown revitalization effort recognize that change won’t happen overnight but agree that a well-directed plan of action to improve Lubec’s image would go a long way toward putting the town back on the map economically.