Wednesday, July 6, 2016

BAKER-POLITO ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR GLOUCESTER’S JODREY STATE PIER

The Jodrey State Fish Pier is an asset that’s critical to the survival of the commercial fishing industry, and it must be kept ready and able to land and process fishery products of all kinds. This investment reflects an understanding of that, and support for an industry that is facing threats on so many fronts.

Here is a news release with more details.

Pier renovations will maintain critical maritime infrastructure

Boston – Today the Baker-Polito Administration announced $1.1 million in funding to advance the renovation of the Jodrey State Pier in Gloucester. The funding will support the City of Gloucester’s working port, by ensuring that Gloucester’s commercial fishing fleet maintains reliable access to critical port infrastructure, including cold storage and freezing facilities.

“Our administration is supporting blue jobs with a full range of maritime economic development opportunities, including commercial fishing and lobstering, cargo shipping, tourism, maritime innovation and clean energy,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “This commitment to Jodrey State Pier advances the long-term vitality of Gloucester’s commercial port and the future of our working fishermen and lobstermen.”

“This strategic investment in Gloucester’s waterfront is the result of close collaboration across multiple agencies, under the Seaport Economic Council,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “By rehabilitating and modernizing Jodrey State Pier, we are demonstrating our commitment to deepening the economic impact of state maritime facilities, and providing responsible stewardship of publicly-owned assets.”

Jodrey State Pier hosts commercial fishing, lobstering, and fish processing activities. The roof of the pier’s cold storage and freezing operation is severely deteriorating, imperiling the pier’s commercial viability. The Commonwealth’s $1.1 million funding commitment will replace the roof of the pier’s cold storage building, preserving the port’s commercial viability. Construction is scheduled to commence this fall.

“By making this $1.1 million investment to the Jodrey State Pier in Gloucester, the Baker-Polito Administration is sending a clear message to the city and the region that the maritime industry remains an incredibly important component to the state’s economy,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “The renovation of the cold storage facility will ensure the working port will remain viable and more attractive for future use, and I am proud of the financial commitment this Administration has made to the City of Gloucester and the region as a whole.”