The Friends of Fort Trumbull S.P. announce September program

FRIENDS OF FORT TRUMBULL S.P. TO PRESENT TRANSPORTATION MARITIME MANAGER

For their September meeting, the Friends of Fort Trumbull S.P. will continue to explore the theme The Whaling City and the Sea. Having looked back at the Whaling Era, during which New London was the world’s third busiest whaling port, the group will now hear speakers focusing on the present and future. One lesson that has become clear from this examination of the past is that former whaling ports have had to reinvent themselves in order to prosper.

On Thursday, Sept. 25, 2014, the Friends will present Captain Charles Beck (ret.), Connecticut Transportation Maritime Manager. Mr. Beck will speak on “The Strategy for Economic Development for the Port of New London”.

Mr. Beck started his State of Connecticut service in October 2001, after a distinguished and decorated thirty-year career as an officer in the United State Coast Guard. In his present position, he is responsible for coordinating with federal, local, and private entities involved in setting and implementing maritime policy activities including dredging, port infrastructure improvements, homeland security and the year-round use of water related industries with a focus on maximizing the economic potential of Connecticut’s ports and other maritime resources.

In addition to a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering earned from the Coast Guard Academy, he has earned a master of Science in the Administration of Science and Technology from George Washington University, a Master of Arts in International Relations from Salve Regina College and a Master of Arts in Strategic Studies and National Security from the Naval War College.

Mr. Beck will discuss the recent decision by the State Bond Commission to fund $5.8 million in improvements and engineering studies for State Pier in New London. Mr. Beck has said that the long-range plans include the possibility of upgrading the port to accommodate ships just under 1,000 feet long, up from the current 700 foot limit. Captain Beck has said, “I don’t think we’ll ever compete with a New York or Boston. But could New London, Bridgeport and New Haven be relief ports for New York and Boston? Absolutely.” Other improvements to State Pier will include better lighting, more efficient equipment, and more surface area to lay down cargo. “You need to stay current with competition in the real world”, Beck said.

The presentation will be at The Fort Trumbull Conference Center at 7 p.m. The public is invited, but seating is limited. New members are always welcome. Refreshments will be served after the presentation.