The Dredge Now Coalition is pleased to relay that Gov. Ed Rendell today announced an agreement between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, which will allow for dredging of Delaware River from 40 to 45 feet.

At a press conference this morning outside of the Philadelphia Regional Port Authority’s (PRPA) Administration Building, Gov. Rendell and State Rep. Bill Keller were greeted with cheers from a vibrant crowd that included dredging supporters from labor, government, business and industry, as well as the Port of Philadelphia. 

According to a news release issued through the Governor’s office, the project will run from the mouth of the Delaware Bay to Philadelphia/Camden – which comprises about 100 miles of waterway.  The project will be completed in approximately three years and is expected to have a significant economic impact on Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley region.

The agreement calls to establish PRPA as the non-federal local sponsor of the dredging project.  In addition, it works to identify sites for disposal of dredge material and sets forth procedures for an updated environmental impact study to be completed within six months.

The Dredge Now Coalition thanks all stakeholders and supporters who have worked so hard to see this agreement come to fruition.  We will keep you updated on news and progress as the project advances.