For Immediate Release: January 21, 2021
Coos Bay, OR –

For many years there has been a concerted effort by myriad stakeholders in Coos Bay to advocate for much-needed repairs to the North Jetty. The Oregon International Port of Coos Bay (Port) has worked very closely with Representative Peter DeFazio, the US Army Corp of Engineers, and a variety of users such as the Pilots and Commercial Fishing Fleet to secure the funding to execute this work.

We learned through Representative DeFazio’s office that the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) have released their 2021 workplan, which includes an additional $34.65 million to support repairs to the North Jetty. The Jetty has been losing approximately twenty feet per year, which has resulted in its receding a total of 900 feet since its original construction design. The jetty’s construction was completed in 1929.

The USACE project will include the addition of approximately 120’-150’ in jetty length, stabilization of the head of the jetty, and addition of rock to the jetty’s trunk and root to further stabilize the structure. This work will be critical in ensuring the safety of mariners transiting in and out of the Coos Bay harbor.

Port staff have worked closely with Representative DeFazio and his office, as well as the USACE to advocate for full use of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund to support annual maintenance dredging and supporting infrastructure like the North Jetty for ports throughout the United States. Representative DeFazio led this charge and played a critical role in working with the Corps to include the North Jetty repair in this year’s workplan under the Major Maintenance and Repair program.

The Port actively works to develop maritime infrastructure and support existing and future commercial development within the Coos Bay Harbor. The efforts of Representative DeFazio and his office will greatly enhance the safety and long-term viability of the Port community.

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For additional information, please contact:
Margaret Barber, Director of External Affairs
mbarber@portofcoosbay.com // 541-266-3713