By Dave Lucas
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-926316.mp3
Utica, NY – After years of planning, the dredging of Utica Harbor has finally begun. A development plan is set to transform the dismal landscape into a thriving waterfront community. Capital District Bureau Chief Dave Lucas reports.
Utica Harbor hadn't been dredged for navigational maintenance purposes since 1980. It became too shallow for navigation. Mayor David Roefaro has envisioned great changes for many years, going back to before he took office. The dredging paves the way for recreational, tourism and economic development opportunities. Mayor Roefaro envisions the waterway as a "business magnet." The site clean-up process is ahead of schedule. Finalization of the clean up is expected within two years. Mayor Roefaro believes the redeveloped waterfront, named "Harbor Point," will open within four years.