Port District receives additional federal funds this year for the annual dredge program
Thanks to generous federal funding, the annual dredging project underway at the Harbor will be much more intensive this year than usual, allowing for cleaner and safer Harbor access.
Ongoing through April this year, the dredging project serves to clear up hazardous buildup of sand and other material from coastal storms. Without dredging, this buildup would result in dangerously shallow water at the Harbor entrances.
The Ventura Port District was allotted nearly $8.4 million in federal funds this year – over $3 million more than expected.
“This new funding … will help keep our port and harbors open for business, which is good for Ventura County residents and businesses alike,” said U.S. Rep. Julia Brownley (D-California), in announcing this year’s funding. “Thank you to our local leaders for working together once again to bring this important support to our community.”
The Ventura Port District works year-round to secure funding for the annual project, from local elected officials and those in Washington, to ensure that Ventura Harbor is safe for commercial and recreational boats.
The dredging is completed by a contractor hired by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. As usual, this year’s project will cause no Harbor closures.