New Bedford celebrates two boat-access openings

NEW BEDFORD – The Mass. Department of Fish and Game, state legislators and city officials this month marked the opening of the recently reconstructed Clarks Cove Boat Access Area in New Bedford, a project that will boost access and fishing opportunities in Buzzards Bay and Nantucket Sound.

The department’s Office of Fishing and Boating Access completed reconstruction of the two sites during fiscal 2011. The total project cost of $488,000 was paid for by the Environmental Bond signed by Gov. Deval L. Patrick in 2008.

Last year, the department’s Office of Fishing and Boating Access completed eight boat-access projects valued at close to $1.4 million that include boat-ramp renovations, parking-lot improvements, and new docks that will enhance boating and fishing opportunities in southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod.

The Clarks Cove facility on West Rodney French Boulevard project included a complete reconstruction of the existing boat ramp and the addition of a new float system, making boat-launching easier. The facility has 22 parking spaces for vehicles with trailers.

The department also oversaw the reconstruction of the boat ramp at the New Bedford Harbor facility, located on East Rodney French Boulevard. That site provides parking for 30 vehicles with trailers. •