Main Sections

Ferry Docks Get Green Light

photo by Mike Cameron

Tuesday December 8, 2009

By Mike Cameron

   Construction crews are hard at work near the Champlain Bridge on both sides of the lake.  Vehicle access and dock work is underway as of this edition of the Voice.  Members of the Champlain Bridge Coalition report that they can see some light at the end of the tunnel.  NYSDOT and the Empire State Development (ESD) has announced that business owners and industries affected by the Champlain Bridge closure can now apply on-line.  The web address for applicants seeking Retail Assistance and Increased Travel Cost grants can be accessed at: www.empire.state.ny.us/ChamplainBridge/default.asp

This would help those looking to see assistance via Governor Paterson's $2.94 million economic assistance program approved last week.

    In Vermont $1 million in federal stimulus money is being recommended  for use to assist Vermont businesses harmed by the closure of the bridge.   The money is expected to become available soon and could be applied for in the form of direct grants, loans or other forms of financial aid.  The final form of assistance will be discussed in January when the legislature returns to Montpelier and will need to be agreed upon by lawmakers and Governor Jim Douglas.  The Voice will post the Vermont application process when it becomes available.

    The Champlain Bridge Coalition is keeping a watchful eye on the progress of the construction of the two ferry slips which will be located to the south of the bridge and far enough away that they will not be effected by the pending bridge demolition project that could come at any time according to our sources.

    In another related note, the Essex Visitors Center and the Lake Champlain Bridge Closure Outreach Center located at the bridge has been closed due to the increased  heavy construction traffic in the area.
The Ticonderoga Town Hall and the Empire State Development Regional Center in Plattsburgh will be able to assist people who want to speak with a state official in person.  All important telephone numbers are listed on the website listed above.  The site is comprehensive and is updated on a daily basis.

    Another website with continually updated information on the bridge closure is www.lcbclosure.org.  

    A timetable for completion of this project remains elusive and  transportation officials from both sides of the lake are not saying when the project is expected to be completed in specific terms.  One factor remains important to mention and that is the fact that the construction workers and engineers have been  granted good weather for the most part to complete this vital project.  We want to thank the CBC for their help in compiling this update.   

Printer Friendly

Top

Advertisements

Search our Archives