DEM gives E.P. $87K for barge removal

PROVIDENCE – The R.I. Department of Environmental Management recently gave an $87,000 grant to East Providence for the removal of two derelict barges that have been sunk in the Providence River for years.
The two barges are resting on the bottom of the Providence River on Greenjacket Shoals off of Bold Point in East Providence. They are a navigation hazard as well as an “eyesore to people visiting the area,” DEM said. East Providence is partnering with Middletown-based nonprofit debris-removal organization Clean Bays to complete the removal and disposal of the barges.
The vessels will be removed to the mud line and the nonprofit will attempt to recycle any salvageable wood and dispose of unsalvageable wood.
Money for the grant is being provided through the Derelict and Abandoned Vessel and Obstruction Removal Account, which is funded by a surcharge added to boat-registration fees. •

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