The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Water Improvement Fund has partnered with Perryville to increase tourism and stimulate the local economy, while increasing public access to the Susquehanna River. With $618,950 from the Waterway Improvement Fund, Perryville recently awarded a contract worth approximately $1.14 million to construct a new boating pier and twelve boat slips to Maryland based contractor Dissen and Juhn.
“This is a wonderful project that will both help the local economy as well as expand public access to the Susquehanna,” said DNR Director of Boating Services Bob Gaudette.
The new pier will be 575 feet long, and 10 feet wide, with a gangway connecting to a floating dock system that will provide 12 new boat slips for visiting boaters. Residents will also enjoy access to the pier for nature watching and town events. Construction will begin in December and is expected to be completed by November 2010.
“We view this project as an enhancement to the Lower Susquehanna River trail system, an economic stimulus through increased tourism and additional water access for this river front community,” said Perryville Mayor James L. Eberhardt.
“This project will greatly enhance water access, recreation, heritage tourism and hopefully be the impetus for the economic development of the town’s waterfront as well as the revitalization of the old downtown area,” said Town Commissioner Barbara A. Brown. “I am extremely happy that everyone who has worked with the town to make this project happen will see their efforts pay off.”
The Waterway Improvement Fund is supported by the 5 percent vessel excise tax that is paid when a boat is titled in Maryland. The project is also funded in part with federal funds from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and by Perryville.
source: DNR press release
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