Connecticut Port Authority to lead State Pier revitalization in New London

Governor Malloy Announces $15 Million Investment

(New London) – Governor Dannel Malloy has announced the State Bond Commission is expected to approve $15 million for an infrastructure improvement project that will revitalize State Pier in New London to maximize the port’s potential as a regional economic engine. The commission is scheduled to meet Friday.

The Connecticut Port Authority (CPA) will oversee the project, and work has already begun on preliminary planning.

Scott Bates, the chairman of the CPA, praised Governor Malloy for his decision to continue his administration’s large scale investment in the Connecticut maritime economy:

“Governor Malloy has worked hard to rebuild Connecticut’s infrastructure as a way to create jobs and long term economic growth. This investment in State Pier will pay dividends for years to come in this region and across Connecticut. At the Connecticut Port Authority, we are ready to tackle this new project as we continue our work strengthening the maritime economy across the state.”

State Pier in New London is the only major port, from the mid-Atlantic to Maine, without the bridge obstructions or hurricane barriers that can restrict ships from entering other harbors.

This is a major advantage when it comes to using State Pier to support development initiatives along the east coast of the United States. The same natural assets that made New London the Whaling City, and a major area of regional commerce in the early days of the United States, are still assets today.

The governor’s announcement of further investment in State Pier follows an announcement earlier this month of a new partnership with Electric Boat that is expected to help create nearly 2,000 jobs in the region.

M/S HEBRIDEAN SKY MAKES PORT CALL IN NEW LONDON

First Passenger Cruise Ship to Dock in New London in Four Years

(New London) – The M/S Hebridean Sky docked in New London Monday making it the first passenger cruise ship to use the port of New London since 2014. Close to 100 passengers disembarked for a trip to Essex and a ride on the Essex Steam Train.

The ship is on a week-long cruise from New York to Halifax, Nova Scotia. New London was its first stop on the voyage.

New London is a city steeped in maritime heritage, but as a cruise ship destination it is also logistically convenient for ship operators, who find it easier to move passengers on inland excursions from New London in contrast with other east coast harbors.

“This day demonstrates Connecticut’s appeal to the cruise industry”, said Scott Bates, Chairman of the Connecticut Port Authority. “We are making investments in growing this economic opportunity for the people of Connecticut.”

“We are thrilled to share the beauty and accessibility of New London with the M/S Hebridean Sky’s passengers and crew,” said New London Mayor Michael Passero. “New London is a hidden gem in the northeast, and we look forward to many future returns.”

As the port authority continues its work to expand the capabilities of Connecticut’s major ports and small harbors, the authority’s leadership is looking to build on Connecticut’s coastal location as a natural asset worth re-investing in. The authority is in the process of researching redevelopment options at State Pier in New London and Fort Trumbull in the hope of expanding use of the port of New London by the cruise ship industry.

Local Waters. Global Solutions.

Connecticut is home to three deepwater ports (Bridgeport, New Haven, and New London) and a multitude of small harbors, rail lines, and interstate highways crisscrossing the state. Connecticut is uniquely located at the intersection of maritime access and distribution networks, and a thriving maritime industry in Connecticut means stronger economic growth across each of these assets.

The Connecticut Port Authority is overseeing new investments in infrastructure, dredging and intermodal terminal capabilities that are expanding the foundation of Connecticut’s maritime industry and building a thriving network of efficient, customizable transportation solutions.

Statement from Chairman Scott Bates on Electric Boat News

(Old Saybrook) – Today Governor Dannel Malloy announced a major new partnership with Electric Boat that will grow the company’s workforce to 13,000 and lead to capital investments of $800 million over the next 17 years.

The following statement was issued by Scott Bates the chairman of the Connecticut Port Authority:

“This investment advances the maritime economy of our state, strengthens the workforce and sets the stage for future success. Next up, revitalization of the working waterfront at State Pier.”

The Small Harbor Improvement Projects Program

The Small Harbor Improvement Projects Program (SHIPP) will provide grants for the
preparation of plans and studies, as well as construction projects that improve state,
municipal, or other properties in or next to Connecticut waters.

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