Importance of Port of New Bedford Dredging Highlighted

The Port of New Bedford has submitted a $15 million TIGER grant for the 2017 round offered by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the City of New Bedford, Massachusetts, said in their latest announcement.

The port is seeking funds to build 800 feet of additional bulkhead in the North Terminal and complete Phase V dredging.

This project will finalize the cleanup of the harbor, create more dockage space for vessels, create at least 900 new jobs and unlock millions in additional private investment, according to the announcement.

“The purpose of this project is to promote growth in the Port of New Bedford across multiple industries: fishing, offshore wind, cargo, and island freight,” said Mayor Jon Mitchell. “With the EPA’s recent approval, we are now in a position to seek funding for construction, and I am grateful to our federal and state legislative delegations for their support.”

“We feel we submitted a strong application, clearly demonstrating how this project will increase efficiencies for a number of water-dependent businesses and will spur immense economic development and private investment for the long-term,” added Ed Washburn, Port Director.

If awarded, this grant could leverage approximately $20 million in state dredging funds and complete the portion of the harbor cleanup not overseen by the EPA.

Once completed, private business will be able to invest in maintenance dredging and business expansion in a simplified and more cost effective manner, the city said.

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