The smallest state in the union appears poised to make big gains in terms of improving commercial fishing infrastructure that would add truck driving opportunities.
Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee issued a 2023 budget that includes a $46 million investment into rehabilitating the Port of Galilee. Much of the state’s primary fishing port has fallen into disrepair, and the RI General Assembly is currently reviewing the governor’s fiscal priorities. The state already has a $15 million project underway to replace asphalt, heavy piers, and 1,000 feet of steel barriers designed to protect against storm surge.
“From its origins in the mid-1900s as a cluster of fishing shacks to its status today as the 12th-highest-ranked port by landings value nationwide, whose products are served around the world, Galilee is an economic and jobs powerhouse,” Gov. McKee reportedly said. “Just as important, it’s a working port and fact of life for hundreds of commercial fishermen, businesses that support them, and their families.”
Upwards of 50 percent of the proposed investment would go toward replacing docks, bulkheads, and raising the port infrastructure by 18 inches to improve protection against flooding. Improved roads, parking areas, and electrical upgrades are also reportedly included in the governor’s vision. The Rhode Island Trucking Association has thrown its support behind the Port of Galilee rejuvenation plan.
“This would be a great investment. We see it as good for the state and good for trucking and logistics. We have a number of our members in the squid and calamari business there. Our footprint at the port is pretty extensive,” Chris Maxwell, CEO of Rhode Island Trucking Association, reportedly said. This “will not just impact Rhode Island’s motor carriers, because a lot of fish is being drawn out of there for other points in New England, but also the region because of the might of the Port of Galilee.
The Rhode Island port serves as a hub for approximately 240 commercial fishing vessels that brought upwards of 48 million pounds of seafood to market in 2019. The state’s Department of Environmental Management (DEM) oversees aspects of the port that involves 38 acres in the town of Narragansett, two terminals, a well as 40 docks and piers. Businesses that benefit from commercial fishing include seafood wholesalers, fish processors, fuel, ice manufacturing, and a boatload of truck transportation.
The RI DEM appears to be on board with the infrastructure updates and anticipates construction could be completed by 2026. The agency also recently proposed the redevelopment of five acres within the Port of Galilee property not currently used for commercial fishing purposes. DEM plans to divide three parcels and terminate the lease for one containing the Lighthouse Inn. DEM envisions demolishing the inn and opening the land for parking lots, public amenities, and businesses that support the industry.
“We are committed to working on a plan for the property that supports the many commercial fishing crews, seafood processors, and other shoreside businesses that bring fresh seafood to markets locally, nationally, and globally,” acting DEM director Terry Gray reportedly said.
Sources: ttnews.com, nerej.com
Imagine that! Trucks only toll lanes and the truck drives are kissing the governors ass. How soon they forget.