Today the Connecticut Port Authority (CPA) issued a Request for Applications (RFA) for project funding under the Small Harbor Improvement Projects Program (SHIPP), a competitive grant program managed by the CPA. Under SHIPP, Connecticut municipalities and other properties, in or adjacent to waters of the state, may apply for matching funds to conduct a project that improves the infrastructure or management of their local waterway.
The actual selection of grant recipients will take place in June after the CPA Projects Committee rates and selects the applications based on developed criteria and presents to the CPA Board of Directors for final approval.
The mission of the Connecticut Port Authority (CPA) is to coordinate the development of Connecticut’s ports and harbors, while working with other state, local and private entities to maximize the economic potential of the state’s maritime commerce and industries. In pursuit of this mission, the CPA created SHIPP as a central part of its strategy to support economic development throughout Connecticut’s waterfront communities.
A SHIPP Grant may be used on a wide range of improvements including: marina repair, dredging, boat ramp facilities improvement, breakwaters, harbor management plans and feasibility studies.
“We are very pleased to launch a new round of SHIPP grants,” said Evan Matthews, Executive Director of the Connecticut Port Authority. “By helping to invest in Connecticut’s small harbors and waterways that support our local communities and municipalities, the CPA is able to strengthen the long term growth of Connecticut’s maritime economy.”
To date, the CPA has funded 18 Small Harbor improvement Projects, totaling close to $4 million.
