Vessels that come to the Port of Long Beach may soon be able to better maneuver through its waterways thanks to $8 million in funding from the bipartisan infrastructure law allocated to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The money is intended to start and finish the pre-construction, engineering and design phase of certain navigational projects. That could include work to deepen the approach channel from 76 feet to 80 feet, build an approach channel to Pier J South, dredge from 50 feet to 55 feet in parts of the West Basin and structurally improve breakwaters at Pier J, according to the port.
“Improving the ability of ships to navigate channels here will have economic benefits for the entire country,” said port Executive Director Mario Cordero. “Locally, creating navigational efficiencies will move ships through the harbor faster, reducing air pollution. There will be a good return for this investment.”