Connecticut Port Authority announced that GZA GeoEnvironmental will provide design and engineering solutions for repairs and modifications of Pier 7 located at Fort Trumbull.
Working closely with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) – the facility owner – the Connecticut Port Authority is investing in the project and will oversee GZA GeoEnvironmental during the study.
Pier 7 is an important piece of Connecticut’s maritime infrastructure, and this project will identify the upgrades needed to improve its overall safety and structural integrity to allow for continued calls by Coast Guard and Naval vessels, with the potential to attract other larger vessels such as cruise ships.
Evan Matthews, the Executive Director of the Connecticut Port Authority, said, “At the Port Authority, our job is to invest in maritime projects that grow the state’s economy. By taking this first step to assess the design and engineering of Pier 7, we are committing to the economic possibilities that will exist when the project is complete. We are excited for GZA GeoEnvironmental to begin the design work for upgrades at Pier 7.”
Tom Tyler, Director, State Parks and Public Outreach Division of DEEP, stated, “We at DEEP are appreciative of the CT Port Authority’s interest in the long-term viability of Pier 7 at Fort Trumbull State Park. The Piers at Fort Trumbull in New London are a wonderful resource for the public, whether that is fishing access from the Fishing Pier, or to support visiting ships on Pier 7. This design work will provide the information needed to assure that Pier 7 can continue to provide this important ship access into the future.”
The upgrades needed at Pier 7 include electrical system, fresh water supply piping, sewage disposal piping, lighting and infrastructure upgrades. The design and engineering study will determine the full extent of improvements and the cost of the repairs. Once the study is complete, further CPA investment will be needed for construction.