Connecticut's new Port Authority has taken control of the state pier in New London, part of what it says will be a comprehensive maritime strategy for Connecticut.
The Port Authority was created in 2014, to bring a fresh focus to Connecticut’s maritime economy, and make the most of its underutilized deep water resources. At a ceremony on the city’s waterfront, Port Authority Chairman Scott Bates said his board is ahead of schedule on developing the authority’s plan. "Working together we will help Connecticut navigate its way through the 21st Century world of increased competition, opportunity and connection," said Bates.
The authority hopes the state pier, which manages shipping cargo to and from the Interstate system and the New England Central Rail Line, can be a primary source of revenue.
Governor Dannel Malloy said the effort to revitalize ports will pay off.
"Maritime related commerce in Connecticut provides nearly $7 billion in economic output, and it contributes to over 40,000 jobs," he said. "The Connecticut Port Authority will be instrumental in our state’s efforts to attract investment, expand business development and create jobs."
State treasurer Denise Nappier, who is a member of the Port Authority board, said the value proposition is simple.
"It’s about time that we paid attention to our ports, that we paid attention to our coastline," she said. "They’re valuable assets and it’s about time we fully tapped that resource."
The board has also been meeting with port officials in New Haven and New London, and will visit Bridgeport and Norwalk in coming months. It also hopes to hire an executive director late this year.
