The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District, announced that funding has been secured to advance necessary maintenance and repair work at the Stamford Hurricane Protection Barrier. The district anticipates beginning construction activities during calendar year 2027.

As part of the planned work, USACE anticipates a temporary closure of the Stamford Harbor navigation channel through the barrier beginning April 15, 2027, and extending through July 15, 2027. While this closure will be necessary to safely complete critical repairs, USACE has worked extensively to minimize impacts to harbor users and the surrounding community.

During project development, USACE evaluated multiple construction approaches, including alternatives that would have required a semi-permanent cofferdam and resulted in channel closures lasting approximately nine to 12 months. The selected approach significantly reduces the duration of the closure while maintaining flexibility to respond to emergency situations as needed. Although USACE will not be able to avoid a temporary channel closure, every effort has been made to minimize downtime and reduce impacts to navigation.

USACE recognizes the importance of Stamford Harbor to commercial, recreational, and emergency users. In the coming months, the district plans to host public information sessions and engage with harbor stakeholders to hear community concerns, discuss anticipated impacts, and identify opportunities to mitigate disruptions to the greatest extent practicable.

The barrier continues to operate at full capacity, and USACE remains committed to its maintenance, reliability, and operational integrity. As project planning and design efforts continue, USACE will provide updates and seek public input throughout the process.

Mariners and harbor stakeholders are advised to remain alert for future advisories through marine radio broadcasts and to contact the East Branch Navigation Gate office at (978) 318-8807 for specific channel closure information. USACE also recommends monitoring U.S. Coast Guard notices and announcements regarding navigation impacts associated with barrier operations and construction activities. 

Information on the status of the navigation gates can be found on the District website and on the Stamford Hurricane Protection Barrier Facebook page. For more information and the latest project updates, please visit the District website or contact the Stamford Hurricane Protection Barrier office at (978) 318-8370.

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