Banknorth Becomes Tobin Bridge FASTLANE Sponsor; Massport Signs New England Bank, Generating Non-toll Revenue

BOSTON--Dec. 2, 20032, 2003--The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced a three-year contract with Banknorth Group, Inc. to sponsor the Tobin Bridge's FASTLANE program. As a result, Tobin Bridge drivers will soon see signs displaying the Banknorth name. The bridge's first corporate sponsor is the result of Massport's efforts to seek additional business and marketing opportunities on the Tobin Bridge.

Over the weekend, Banknorth began displaying holiday messages on the toll booth windows. In early 2004, Banknorth FASTLANE signage will be erected over the toll plaza. The revenue from Banknorth will help fund planned projects including beautification of exit ramps and new, easier-to-read signs. In 2002, more than 24 million vehicles crossed the Tobin Bridge.

"Banknorth's FASTLANE sponsorship is a major step in capitalizing on the Tobin Bridge's potential to attract additional revenues for continued improvements in paving, beautification and signage," said Massport CEO Craig P. Coy. "We applaud Banknorth for being the bridge's first advertiser in its 53-year history and welcome their investment in this landmark structure."

"As New England's hometown bank, Banknorth is thrilled to be associated with the Tobin Bridge, a regional landmark and gateway to and from northern New England," said William J. Ryan, Banknorth President, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "We're particularly pleased that our sponsorship dollars will help keep the bridge in good condition for the millions of people who use it every year."

In October 2003, Massport selected Travelers Marketing, a Wellesley-based firm, to design, develop and manage the Tobin Bridge advertising program. Banknorth is the lead client signed by Travelers Marketing under this initiative.

About Banknorth

Banknorth Group, Inc., based in Portland, Maine, has $25.8 billion in assets and is the third-largest retail and commercial banking company headquartered in New England. Through its banking subsidiary, Banknorth, N.A., the company operates Banknorth Massachusetts, Banknorth Vermont, Banknorth Connecticut, Bank of New Hampshire, Peoples Heritage Bank in Maine and Evergreen Bank serving upstate New York. Combined, these Banknorth banking divisions represent over 350 branches and more than 500 Banknorth ATMs across New England and upstate New York. Banknorth also operates subsidiaries and divisions in insurance, investments, merchant services, mortgage banking, leasing and other financial services. More information on Banknorth is available at www.Banknorth.com.

The Massachusetts Port Authority is a self-sustaining entity that operates without the use of state tax dollars. It operates Logan International Airport, the Port of Boston, the Tobin Bridge, Hanscom Field and Worcester Regional Airport.

Investment and insurance products: not a deposit; not FDIC insured; not insured by any federal government agency; not guaranteed by the bank or any affiliate; and may be subject to investment risk, including possible loss of value. Insurance products are offered through Banknorth, N.A., Banknorth Insurance Group or their state-licensed agency subsidiaries. Securities and insurance products available through Bancnorth Investment Planning Group are provided by PrimeVest Financial Services, Inc., an independent registered broker/dealer. Member SIPC.

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