Scituate Waterways Commission Meeting - 10-06-2026

The Scituate Waterways Commission meeting on October 6, 2026, reviewed harbor infrastructure projects, funding, and operational spending. Harbor dredging remains under Army Corps review, with work anticipated in the spring; the amount of material requiring upland disposal was reduced from roughly 4,000–5,000 cubic yards to about 1,200 cubic yards. The commission heard that $160,000 was awarded for harbor regridding engineering and $120,000 in Community Preservation Act funding was approved for the Town Pier park project; approximately $1.2 million in additional grant applications was also reported. GZA was selected as the engineering firm for a related project, with the contract being prepared for Select Board consideration. Tier 3 testing is on hold pending a better understanding of its cost.

The commission approved revised Fish Pier language requiring all vessels that load or unload to pay the applicable fee, regardless of whether they use the pier’s hoist or their own equipment. A $360,000 capital-plan request to replace a harbor safety boat was discussed but not approved by the commission; members raised concerns about the late notice, affordability, fleet needs, and alternatives, while the request was already being advanced to the town administrator and capital planning process. The commission also approved a $500 seasonal fee for the yacht club’s sailing float, with removal timing and secure installation to be coordinated. A letter supporting the Pier 44 Marine Park proposal passed with two votes against. Other items—including a lease under negotiation with Scituate Boat Works and possible kayak-rack expansion—remain under discussion, with no final purchasing decision reported.