Small Harbor Improvement Program
(SHIP)
Grant-In-Aid
The Connecticut Port Authority (CPA) is introducing the Small Harbor Improvement Program (SHIP) authorized by
Public Act 15-1, Section 13(h)(1).
Grants-In-Aid for the improvements to ports, harbors and marinas, including dredging and navigational
improvements, not exceeding $17,500,000, provided not less than $5,000,000 shall be made available to ports,
harbors and marinas in the state other than the deep water ports in the cities of Bridgeport, New Haven and New
London.
The CPA is seeking to generate a pool of prospective Harbor Improvement projects for consideration of funding
under this competitive grant program.
CPA shall review applications and select Small Harbor Improvement Program Grant recipients in accordance with
provisions of the Request for Applications (RFA), and the rating
The CPA intends to establish this as a permanent program beyond the initial legislation.
Small Harbor Improvement Program
(SHIP)
What is a Harbor Improvement Project?
As defined in Public Act 15-5, Section 14, Section 13b-55a(c), “Harbor Improvement Projects include
the preparation of plans, studies and construction for the alteration and improvement of various
state, municipal and other properties in or adjacent to the waters of the state, for purposes of
improving the economy and infrastructure of the state”; and
Section 16, Section 13b-56(b), “Any municipality may undertake a Harbor Improvement Project,
including the development, improvement, construction and installation of berthing areas, channels
to berthing areas, sea walls, piers, docks, navigation aids, bridges and other related facilities and
structures, pursuant to a harbor improvement plan.”
Small Harbor Improvement Program
(SHIP)
What are the goals of SHIP?
To identify which proposals best meet the definition of “Harbor Improvement Projects”.
Maximize the economic potential of the ports and harbors, support and enhance the overall
development of the state’s maritime commerce and industries, coordinate the planning and funding
of capital projects promoting the development of the port’s and harbors.
Small Harbor Improvement Program
(SHIP)
What is the format for the written proposal?
A narrative description of the current conditions.
A statement of the vision for the future and economic development within the port or harbor.
Provide economic viability of a project through a market analysis, to the extent possible, an estimate
needed to advance the proposed project to full build-out (construction).
A description on how the proposal will support the state’s maritime policies and encourage maritime
commerce and industry.
Small Harbor Improvement Program
(SHIP)
Rating Criteria
•
Economic and Market Viability.
•
Project Permitted
•
Project Approval by Local Authorities (e.g., Harbor Management Commissions, P&Z, etc.)
•
Stage of Project (e.g., planning , design, construction or other)
•
Number of Current Employees, and Number of New Jobs Created