The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Buffalo District has hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of repairs to the 1,025 foot, 114 year-old Rochester East Pier. In attendance were Lt. Col. Colby Krug, Commander USACE Buffalo District, John Pellito representing Congressman Joe Morelle, Chief Matthew Riesberg, Officer in Charge U.S. Coast Guard Station Rochester.

Rochester East Pier repairs will ensure the pier, along with its adjacent federal navigation channel, continue to provide safe passage and refuge for commercial and recreational vessels between the Genesee River, Lake Ontario and the rest of the Great Lakes. The pier is also essential to providing safe navigation in Rochester Harbor – ensuring its economic vitality. As part of the project, solar marine lights were installed on the lake side of the pier, increasing safety and visibility for navigation.

The Port of Rochester is a vital economic and recreational asset that produces millions in annual economic impact and supports hundreds of jobs, over 1,000 boat slips, dozens of charter boats, fishing, and much more. Rochester harbor waterborne transportation supports $4.3 million in business revenue, 20 jobs, and $1.4 million in labor income to the transportation sector.