Overview
After centuries of development, Connecticut’s shoreline represents a unique and delicate balance between economic and environmental assets.
Despite our small size, Connecticut’s tidal rivers, beaches, harbors, and marshes embody 618 miles of shoreline. The Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) is focused on working closely with the Connecticut Port Authority to maximize the economic impact of our three deep water ports and smaller working harbors.
Access Project Support
Developing and revitalizing waterfront properties is often as much an environmental challenge as it is an economic one. DECD coordinates closely with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to ensure that we are protecting the environment and preserving the ecological services that it provides to our communities. Here are few of the available programs and services:
DEEP Brownfields Programs
Find links to Brownfields programs within the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).
Environmental Compliance
Find resources and documents to assist in compliance with the Connecticut Environmental Policy Act (CEPA).
Help Working with Other Agencies
View a list of resources in state, regional and federal offices across Connecticut.
The Connecticut Port Authority
Find out about new investments in infrastructure, dredging and intermodal terminal capabilities that are expanding the foundation of Connecticut’s maritime industry and building a thriving network of efficient, customizable transportation solutions.
Deep Water Port Strategy Study (2012)
Created to assist the state in developing and implementing a long-term strategy for the economic development of Connecticut’s three deep water ports.
Explore Funding Opportunities
Waterfront projects affect both larger/urban and smaller/historic centers. To capitalize on recent trends resulting in high demand for waterfront housing, restaurants, and public/community space, here are a few of the options for funding:
Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP)
Learn about STEAP fund usage, eligibility, find an application and view success stories.
Brownfield Planning Grants
Learn more about grants available for the remediation and redevelopment of neighborhoods, districts, downtowns and other areas with multiple brownfields.
Transit-Oriented Development Fund
Learn more about competitive grant programs that provide funding for municipalities and regional councils of government.
Review Incentives/Liability Relief
In addition to meeting environmental challenges, tax relief and incentives are often required to move waterfront projects forward. Here are a few resources that can assist:
Liability Relief Programs
Access relief programs for abandoned Brownfield cleanup, remediation and revitalization.
Enterprise Zones
Find incentives for eligible business to relocate and/or expand projects within a designated district.
Remediation Options
Find options and resources related to the remediation of polluted properties.
Success Stories
The Office of Community Development has case studies showing a variety of success stories. See how funding, support programs and other services have already achieved success in waterfront development projects of all sizes and requirements.