The U.S. House recently passed Congressman Seth Moulton’s bill to allow dredging in the Essex River as part of the Water Resource Development Act of 2016 (WRDA).
“ Dredging the Essex River is critical for public safety. Coast Guard vessels currently can’t reach boats in distress in many parts of the river. By making the channel more navigable, we’ll ensure a safer environment for all who enjoy it ,” said Moulton.
“It will also help local job growth and economic development, while being conscious of the need to preserve and protect this unique and valuable resource.”
The annual WRDA bill authorizes all water resources development projects carried out by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Moulton advocated for the Essex River dredging project to be included in WRDA to ensure that dredging the Essex River has the federal criteria it needs in order to occur.
“Important dredging projects like the one in the Essex River can’t move forward without federal partnership, and that requires federal officials who are committed to making them happen, ” added State Senator Bruce Tarr.
Moulton’s Essex River Jobs and Recreation Act would allow for re-designated boundaries around the federal channel in order to eliminate encroachment issues from piers and docks, freeing the town to dredge the upper part of the river as it approaches the downtown Causeway and allowing for the safe passage of watercraft.