Massachusetts is expanding investment in coastal infrastructure with a new funding opportunity aimed at improving navigation and supporting economic activity in waterfront communities. The Healey-Driscoll Administration has opened applications for the Fiscal Year 2027 Dredging Construction and Regional Equipment Grant program, providing financial assistance for construction-ready dredging projects and shared equipment purchases.
The program is administered through the Seaport Economic Council and is intended to help coastal communities maintain critical maritime infrastructure.
The competitive grant program will award between $100,000 and $1 million for projects that improve harbor access, navigational safety and regional maritime infrastructure.
Funding may be used for shovel-ready dredging construction projects as well as regional dredging equipment acquisitions that benefit multiple coastal communities.
Eligible applicants include Massachusetts coastal municipalities, public harbor commissions, county commissions and regional public entities representing two or more coastal municipalities. Applications must be submitted by Sept. 22, 2026.
Dredging projects remove accumulated sediment from harbors, rivers and navigation channels to restore safe operating depths for commercial and recreational vessels.
State officials said the funding program is intended to strengthen working waterfronts while supporting commercial fishing, tourism, recreation and other maritime industries that depend on reliable harbor access.
The initiative builds on previous investments through the Seaport Economic Council, including continued funding for port improvements, waterfront infrastructure and coastal resilience projects across Massachusetts.
Regular dredging is essential for maintaining the operational capacity of ports, harbors and navigation channels. For construction owners, marine contractors and public agencies, the FY2027 grant program creates opportunities to advance marine infrastructure projects that improve public safety, support economic development and preserve long-term access to coastal transportation and commercial facilities.
Source: Mass. Gov.
