Federal Funding Announced For Saugatuck River Dredging Project

WESTPORT, CT — First Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker recently joined U.S. Rep. Jim Himes and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal as they took a boat tour of the Saugatuck River to survey conditions and announce $2.81 million in federal funding for proposed dredging activity in town.

According to a news release provided by the town, Police Chief Foti Koskinas and Public Works Director Peter Ratkiewich also joined the tour.

Tooker said the Saugatuck River is one of Westport's greatest assets.

"Westport is fortunate that this long-needed project is on the near horizon," Tooker said in a news release. "For years, the sediment coming down the river has caused shoaling of the federal channel and as such, has diminished the multi-use capacity of the river. With the funding now earmarked for this important dredging program, the outlook for downtown and the Saugatuck neighborhoods and the river shoreline is positive and vibrant for our businesses and our residents."

The selectwoman's office will continue to update residents and interested parties as further details and plans develop.

"From the standpoint of useability," Ratkiewich said in a news release, "the dredging project will increase recreational opportunities on the river, allow for maritime connectivity between the downtown and Saugatuck, and most importantly will enhance the ability of our emergency services to respond to emergencies that happen on or near the river."