BOSTON – Cape Cod and Island communities will have an opportunity to secure state grant funding as the state has announced the opening of the inaugural round of the Massachusetts Dredging Program.
The state’s first standalone grant program that offers focused funding for saltwater dredging on a competitive basis will award up to $4 million in 2019.
Awards will help coastal communities maintain and improve navigational waterways and support marine economy growth and sustainability.
The program is financed through capital funds allocated under the 2018 Economic Development Bill. It builds on the success of the 2018 Navigational Dredging Pilot Program, which awarded $3.6 million to ten projects.
“Massachusetts’ coastal assets offer opportunities to each of the 78 cities and towns along the Commonwealth’s coastline and this new dredging program targets funding to a particular type of project that will provide necessary aid to these municipalities,” said Governor Charlie Baker.
“This is a powerful example of how the state can support local priorities, unlock additional investment, and ensure the continued vitality of our maritime communities.”
Grants will be awarded on a competitive basis with a particular emphasis placed on shovel-ready projects that contribute to the economic significance, recreational value, public safety, and coastal resiliency of the state’s coastal harbors.
Applications will be evaluated by the program administrator, the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, in consultation with the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs.
Applications for grant funding are due by May 1.
More information about the program can be found at mass.gov/Massachusetts-dredging-program.
About CapeCod.com NewsCenter
