Posted on May 2, 2019
OSWEGO — Oswego Harbor will undergo a major dredging project this spring and summer, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced Tuesday.
Last dredged in 2016, the harbor and federal navigation channel must be kept to specific depths to allow shipping through the waters. In 2016, a total of 171,000 cubic yards of sediment material was removed, according to officials.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) awarded the dredging contract to Michigan-based Ryba Marine Construction Company, a release from the USACE said.
The dredging is scheduled to begin in June. Oswego Harbor supports more than 250,000 tons of shipping annually and generates $19 million in economic benefits, the USACE release said.
“This contract award for Oswego Harbor will continue safe navigation for commercial and recreational vessels while opening the doors to greater commercial traffic,” said Lt. Col. Jason Toth, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Buffalo District commander. “We are grateful for the advocacy of Senator Gillibrand, Senator Schumer, and Rep. Katko, as well as other state and local partners, who have worked hard to secure funding for the effort.”
Oswego Mayor Billy Barlow said he was “thrilled” to hear dredging of the harbor would continue, and looks forward to reaping the economic benefits the port provides to the community.
“The dredging of the harbor is extremely important to our community as it ensures our harbor is accessible to ships of all sizes,” Barlow said, adding the harbor is a stimulus for the local economy.
Source: oswegocountynewsnow.com
