(OLD SAYBROOK, Conn.) — The Connecticut Port Authority has re-elected Stonington resident Scott Bates as chairman of its board of directors in a unanimous vote.
“We stand united and focused on advancing the maritime economy of Connecticut,” said Bates. “I am proud of the work we have done together, excited about where we are now, and know there is much more to accomplish in the days ahead. Job creation and economic growth are what we are all about, and it’s an honor to be part of that mission.”
“The Connecticut Port Authority is committed to developing a statewide maritime strategy, which means working alongside leaders and stakeholders in all of our coastal communities,” Bates added. “Investing in harbor improvement projects will help smaller municipalities preserve their beautiful waters, encourage business development along the coastline, and drive the coastal economy forward.”
“A strong maritime economy will be dependent upon the growth and success of each of our waterfront assets, not just the deep water ports,” said Evan Matthews, executive director of the CPA. “We are excited to partner with some of the smaller harbors and marinas to support improvements to their individual infrastructure and, overall, maximize the economic potential of Connecticut’s coastal developments.”
Among the CPA’s initiatives, 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.
The New Haven Harbor Navigational Deepening Study will examine navigation improvements in partnership with the New Haven Port Authority. This feasibility study will identify, evaluate, and recommend to decision makers an appropriate, coordinated and workable solution to the navigation inefficiencies at New Haven Harbor.
About the Connecticut Port Authority
The Connecticut Port Authority is a quasi-public agency created through legislation Gov. Dannel P. Malloy signed in 2014 that is responsible for marketing and coordinating the development of the state’s ports and maritime economy. The creation of the Connecticut Port Authority represents a major commitment by the governor and the Assembly to invest in the state’s port infrastructure to create jobs and attract private investment to the state. For more information, visit www.ctportauthority.com.
