Massachusetts Invests $16.7 Million to Strengthen Coastal Communities

The Healey administration is directing $16.7 million in grant funding to 21 coastal communities across Massachusetts,aiming to bolster infrastructure,address climate change impacts,and support economic development and tourism.The investments, approved by the newly reconfigured Seaport Economic Council, represent a notable commitment to the state’s 78 coastal communities [[1]].

Supporting a Vital Maritime Economy

Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll,chair of the Seaport economic Council,emphasized the critical link between Massachusetts’ history and its maritime economy. “The amazing history in Salem, in all of Massachusetts, is tied to our success in the maritime economy,” she stated.”We have been able to raise up so many other industries native to the commonwealth due to the richness that we have along our coastal seaports.”

Project Highlights and Funding Allocations

The grants will fund a diverse range of projects designed to improve coastal infrastructure and enhance economic opportunities. Here’s a breakdown of some key allocations:

• Boston: $2.4 million for pier rehabilitation along the East Boston waterfront.
• Newburyport: Nearly $1.5 million to rehabilitate the city’s boardwalk.
• Gloucester: $2.6 million for improvements to St. Peter’s Landing and Marina.
• Plymouth: $1.5 million to improve the town’s wharf.
• Quincy: $200,000 for the replacement of the dock at Town River Marina.
• Fall River: $964,925 for improvements to city Pier.
• Fairhaven: $1 million for upgrades to Union Wharf.
• hyannis: $379,000 for improvements to the Inner Harbor.
• Chatham: $857,049 for repurposing a boathouse.
• Dennis: $1.5 million for improvements to Sesuit Harbor.

Reconfigured Seaport Economic Council

The investments are being made possible through $100 million authorized in a 2024 state law to reauthorize the Seaport Economic Council. Governor Maura Healey recently signed an executive order [[1]] reconstituting the council’s membership, which includes state and local officials, business leaders, and representatives from marine trade associations.

State Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley, also the council’s vice chairperson, highlighted the benefits of the new structure. “This rejiggered regulatory panel brings together the right mix of local,industry,and technical expertise to help us make smart,coordinated investments,” he said. “this structure allows us to better align state programs, capital funding, and regulations with the economic realities of coastal communities and the businesses that rely on our maritime infrastructure.”

Supporting the Marine Industry

The Seaport Economic Council’s meeting coincided with the 70th annual New England Boat Show, a significant economic driver for the state’s recreational boating industry. Randall Lyons, executive director of the Massachusetts Marine Trades association, emphasized the show’s importance to merchants and the overall economic health of the sector.

Looking Ahead

These investments demonstrate the Healey administration’s commitment to supporting massachusetts’ coastal communities and ensuring the long-term sustainability of its maritime economy. By addressing aging infrastructure, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and fostering economic growth, the state aims to preserve the vitality of its coastal regions for generations to come.