West Haven officials told the City Council they have been awarded a $152,900 planning grant from the Connecticut Port Authority’s Small Harbor Improvement Program (SHIP) to plan, design and permit renovations at the April Street boat ramp.

Mark Payne, who consults on maritime projects, said the project will begin with borings and topographic/bathymetric surveys and sediment sampling in December. The contractor (GZA Environmental) is under contract for the planning phase; staff expect a conceptual design by January, a 30% design by February, and permitting through May 2026. Payne said the ramp’s existing asphalt surface and very shallow water require redesign — likely a concrete-block ramp with substrate firming and possible limited dredging — to accommodate trailer parking and to enable safer launches beyond high tide.

Council members asked about temporary alternative launch options during construction; Payne said nearby state launches (Devon), the Lighthouse launch across the harbor, and communication via the city website will provide users with alternatives during any closure. The mayor said shoreline permitting can take up to a year and staff will pursue the fastest permissible path, including potential "refurbished" permitting if the design can match previous structures and minimize permitting time.

With planning under way, staff will identify funding sources and return when capital needs and bids are known.

Next steps: continue planning and permitting, produce final design drawings and cost estimates, and pursue capital funding.