U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, the chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, announced Washburn & Doughty Associates, Inc., of East Boothbay has been awarded $618,750 through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration’s Small Shipyard Grant Program. This funding will assist Washburn & Doughty in purchasing and installing a new lathe and robotic welding machine.
“This funding for a new lathe and robotic welding machine is welcome news for the hardworking men and women of Washburn & Doughty Associates, Inc.,” Collins said. “This equipment will enhance the shipyard’s productivity, capabilities, and competitiveness while helping to grow the Boothbay region’s economy.”
Established in 1977, Washburn & Doughty specializes in the construction of steel and aluminum commercial vessels. The shipyard has built a diverse mix of tugboats, commercial passenger vessels, fishing boats, barges, ferries, and research vessels.
The purpose of the Small Shipyard Grant Program is to foster efficiency, competitive operations, and quality ship construction, repair, and reconfiguration in small shipyards across the United States. It also promotes employee skills and enhanced productivity related to shipbuilding, ship repair, and associated industries.
