Workers from Chesterfield Associates began construction on a long awaited Back River jetty project March 19 in Westport Island.
According to Chesterfield’s E. Davies Allan, the four-man crew took advantage of larger than normal tides to begin the first phase of the $104,000 project. Allan said he is trying to get permission from the Army Corps of Engineers to extend the construction window beyond April 9, a date selected by the Corps due to concerns over fish habitat.
“Most of the work is being done off site,” said Allan. “We should have something in next week.”
The winning bid submitted by Chesterfield includes costs for site preparation, the pier, a wave fence, and the jetty itself. The money will not cover items identified as “additive alternates” consisting of an aluminum gangway, float attachments, and a wooden float.
“This means we may not have a dock right away,” said Selectman Jerry Bodmer. “We can search for additional money elsewhere if those additions are wanted.”
In July, Westport Island was awarded a $104,500 Small Harbor Improvement Program (SHIP) grant from the Maine Dept. of Transportation for the project. According to town officials, the jetty will provide enhanced protection and opportunities for recreational use on the recently completed Wright Landing.
Allan said the Chesterfield bid was “at cost” as a gift to the town.
