Posted on June 13, 2018
On Friday the Baker-Polito administration announced a 1.6 million-dollar grant for the design and engineering for the potential dredging of New Bedford’s inner harbor.
According to state officials this marks an important step in the long-term effort to support the maritime economy of Southeastern Massachusetts, including the communities of New Bedford and Fairhaven.
The scope of the design will include commercial berths and important navigational areas, which will be completed concurrently.
State officials say this phase is estimated to take 12 months.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, New Bedford is the number one port in the country in terms of dollar value of catch.
A 2016 economic study prepared for the New Bedford Harbor Development Commission found maritime jobs represent about 15 percent of the employment base in the city of New Bedford.
Officials from New Bedford and Fairhaven agree that dredging is needed to open up access to additional commercial fishing vessels, contributing to new and expanded processing operations, ship repair, maintenance support, and job growth.
Source: TurnTo10
