Moulton Wins Passage of Essex River Dredging Amendment in House of Representatives

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On Wednesday, September 3, the House of Representatives passed Congressman Seth Moulton’s (D-MA) amendment to the annual Energy and Water Appropriations Bill, calling on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to finish the Essex River Federal Navigation Project (FNP). 

The Corps began dredging the Essex River earlier this year, but the engineering firm hired for the project was unable to finish the work. Moulton’s amendment, which was passed with bipartisan support, emphasizes the need for the Corps to prioritize the completion of the project and fulfill its commitment to the community.

Decades of sediment buildup have significantly narrowed the river channel, creating dangerous conditions for marine traffic, small boats, and emergency responders. These ongoing hazards not only threaten public safety but also limit access for local businesses, particularly those reliant on the river for commercial and recreational activity.

Congressman Moulton has been working on this project for nearly a decade. Over the years, he has passed legislation to redesignate the channel and secured funding to conduct the project. The passage of this amendment represents another important step in finalizing this project and ensuring the federal government follows through on its promise to the people of Essex.

“I’m not going to stop fighting until the Essex River is dredged to the level required by our boaters and first responders,”  said Congressman Moulton. The federal government must finish the jobs it starts, and funding must be allocated to complete dredging the Esse River as soon as possible. I am pleased to have the House back my efforts to make the Corps prioritize getting this done once and for all.”

Key Impacts of Finishing the FNP:

• Public safety: Ensures emergency vessels can respond quickly and safely.
• Economic support: Protects fishing, tourism, and maritime industries central to the North Shore.
• Environmental stewardship: Manages sediment effectively to preserve shoreline habitats.
• Accountability: Reinforces the need for the federal government to complete projects it starts.

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