The Connecticut Port Authority has seen an impressive year of growth for Connecticut’s maritime economy. In 2018, they saw new investments in our deepwater ports, the start of major rejuvenation projects at our small recreational harbors and international acknowledgment that Connecticut is poised to grow into an economic center with opportunities in shipping and supply chain.
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In May, the M/S Hebridean Sky docked in New London, making it the first passenger cruise ship to use the port of New London since 2014. Approximately 100 passengers disembarked for a trip to Essex and a ride on the Essex Steam Train. The ship was on a week-long cruise from New York to Halifax, Nova Scotia. New London was its first stop on the voyage.
This year also saw the CPA taking on a leadership role in the global maritime economy through the training and certification of port executives through the International Association of Maritime & Port Executives (IAMPE) Professional Certification Program.
Finally, the CPA is currently hard at work progressing major projects and agreements that will continue the state’s growth into 2019. CPA is in negotiations with a Respondent for the operations and maintenance of the State Pier and evaluating proposals for improvements to Pier 7 at Fort Trumbull.