Suffolk, Norfolk District secure safe navigation in unique agreement

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Norfolk District Public Affairs Office
Published Dec. 7, 2018

SUFFOLK, Va. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Norfolk District began maintenance dredging of the Bennett’s Creek Federal Navigation channel here today.

Slated to be accomplished in about four weeks, the project will remove critical shoaling within the Bennett’s Creek Channel, currently impacting navigation.

Unique to the Corps, labor and equipment assets will be solely provided by USACE for the duration of the project. Support work will also be provided by the district, which includes environmental, survey, engineering and design; as well as preparation of the dredging orders.  

“This is somewhat of a unique project; we’re using a USACE dredge, the Murden, instead of contractor because it was deemed more efficient and cost effective for the City of Suffolk,” said Ross Tuttle, Norfolk District civil engineer and project manager. “With this being 100-percent contributed funds from the local sponsor, using our dredge will make the most of their funds.”

Most dredging projects are funded via a cost-share agreement with federal funding contributing to the efforts. In March, the city contacted the district with interest in providing the total funds needed to remove the shoaling from the creek. After receiving congressional approval, USACE was sanctioned to move forward with the city.

Typically, maintenance dredging of this nature is deemed necessary approximately every four to five years. Maintaining the waterway reduces dangerous navigational conditions, aids commercial endeavors and promotes recreational activities

Tuttle stated the goal is to dredge to the creek’s maintain depth of six feet.

Questions or concerns regarding this project can be referred to USACE Norfolk District Public Affairs Office, 757-201-7606