Dredging operations underway in Jacksonville Harbor to enhance navigational safety.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded an $18.5 million contract to Cashman Dredging & Marine Contracting for maintenance dredging in Jacksonville Harbor. This project will enhance navigational safety and allow larger vessels to access the port, boosting local commerce. Furthermore, recent changes to the Hogpen Creek special district will alleviate tax burdens for local property owners. Mayor Donna Deegan hopes to find alternative funding solutions for future dredging efforts, ensuring the safety and efficiency of Jacksonville’s waterways.
Jacksonville, Florida, is buzzing with excitement as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recently announced a substantial $18.5 million contract awarded to Cashman Dredging & Marine Contracting. This contract is all about maintenance dredging work in the city’s harbor, which is crucial for keeping things running smoothly in our waterways.
You might wonder, “What’s the big deal with dredging?” Well, let me break it down for you. Dredging is like giving our rivers and harbors a bit of a spring-cleaning! Specifically, the current project focuses on the Jacksonville Harbor federal navigation channel. This work will allow larger vessels to pass through, which is fantastic news for local businesses as it helps in reducing transportation costs and enhances navigational safety. So, if you’ve ever waited for a cargo ship to navigate those waters, this is a huge boost for keeping things moving!
The contract is divided into a Base element and four different options. Here’s how it breaks down:
The materials that are dredged from the Base and Option A will be taken to the Ocean Dredge Material Disposal Site (ODMDS). Meanwhile, Options B, C, and D will see their materials end up at the Bartram Island Dredge Material Management Area (DMMA) Cell A.
As concerns grew over potential increases to the assessment, which could have risen up to $200 per year and capped at $7,500, property owners were understandably anxious. They learned of the financial implications only after the bills hit their mailboxes, and some even faced the risk of foreclosure if they couldn’t pay. Thankfully, with the abolishment of the district, the special assessment will no longer burden property tax bills, bringing some relief to over 100 affected residents.
The city is now looking toward the future and exploring alternative funding solutions for dredging projects. Representatives from the city administration, including Mayor Donna Deegan, have expressed their opposition to using city funds for creek dredging, preferring to seek other options.
On a related note, maintaining safety in our waters remains a priority. Recently, there was a fire incident on a dredging ship in the Mayport Basin, and the local agencies, including the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit and the Coast Guard, stepped up to help extinguish the flames. Thankfully, the fire was brought under control quickly, although one individual required hospitalization for critical injuries.
As Jacksonville moves forward, the newly awarded dredging contract and the changes regarding the Hogpen Creek special district are positive steps toward enhancing both our ecosystem and our local commerce. It’s clear that whether it’s maintaining our waterways or addressing local concerns, community voices and expert actions truly shape our city’s future!
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