Posted on February 9, 2021
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have allocated nearly $1.65 million for the dredging of Holland Harbor in 2021.
U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland, announced the figure Tuesday. USACE will dredge both the inner and outer harbors in Holland, after including it in its 2021 work plan.
Dredging cleans out the bed of a body of water by scooping out mud, weeds and rubbish. It allows larger barges, typically those carrying commercial freight, to move in and out of the harbor more easily.
“Harbors along Lake Michigan serve as a major source of economic opportunity, good-paying jobs, and growth in our communities,” Huizenga said in a statement. “I am glad to continue to have productive conversations with the Army Corps of Engineers that deliver positive results and prioritize not only the Great Lakes but communities across West Michigan.”
Holland Harbor was also dredged in 2020. Grand Haven Harbor will also be dredged in 2021, with USACE allocating $1.7 million for its dredging.
“The recently announced funding for the maintenance of both the inner and outer portions of Holland Harbor is great news for us at Brewer’s and the markets that we serve,” said Phil Brewer, president of Brewer’s City Dock in Holland. “Protecting the Lake Michigan shoreline and investing in water infrastructure is critical to West Michigan.”
