Penquis opens Bright Beginnings Child Development Center in Bangor

BANGOR, Maine (WABI) - A major milestone tonight for families in central Maine as Penquis expands access to early childhood education.

Wednesday marked the grand opening of the Bright Beginnings Child Development Center, capping off a three-year, community-driven effort to bring high-quality childcare to the region.

The 16-classroom facility serves infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

Penquis leaders say the initiative grew directly out of listening to local families’ greatest needs, placing a heavy emphasis on highly qualified staff.

“We really listened to our community about three years ago on what the greatest needs were, and childcare was one of the ones that bubbled to the top. And we knew that the center of Bangor is a place where it’s very accessible to folks. It’s near a grocery store, near a bus line, so we just knew this was the hub of the community, and the best place to have 200 kiddos served,” Penquis CEO Kara Hay said.

Enrollment depends on current openings. Families interested in applying can call 973-3567.