Connecticut’s statewide port development and maritime economic development framework is established in Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 264a, which creates the Connecticut Port Authority (CPA) as the state’s primary entity for coordinating port and harbor development, maritime commerce initiatives, and related strategic planning and investment activities.

Under CGS § 15-31b, the Connecticut Port Authority is established to coordinate and advance Connecticut’s port and harbor development. Statutory purposes include, among other duties, to:

• Coordinate development of Connecticut’s ports and harbors, with a focus on aligning public and private investment;
• Pursue federal and state funding for dredging and other infrastructure improvements to increase cargo movement and maintain navigability;
• Market the economic development potential of the state’s ports and harbors;
• Work with the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) and other state, local, and private entities to maximize economic potential;
• Support and enhance development of the state’s maritime commerce and industries;
• Coordinate planning and funding of capital projects promoting port and harbor development;
• Coordinate the state’s maritime policy activities and serve as the Governor’s principal maritime policy advisor; and
• Undertake such other responsibilities as may be assigned to the Authority.

The CPA is also granted a broad set of operational authorities in statute (including the ability to organize its operations and enter into agreements and transactions necessary to carry out its purposes), as provided in Chapter 264a.

Connecticut’s maritime infrastructure includes assets and projects that support transportation, commerce, and waterfront economic activity. The State Pier in New London is a key maritime facility.  

Consistent with CGS Chapter 264a, the Connecticut Port Authority provides statewide coordination for port and harbor development initiatives, including pursuit of infrastructure investment and funding strategies for port- and harbor-related capital projects.

CTDOT’s State Maritime Office and the Connecticut Port Authority have complementary roles:

• CTDOT State Maritime Office: Supports CTDOT maritime transportation operations and coordination functions, including CTDOT’s ferry operations across the Connecticut River and other maritime responsibilities assigned within CTDOT.

• Connecticut Port Authority (CPA): Serves as Connecticut’s statutory entity for port and harbor development coordination, statewide maritime commerce and industry support, capital planning and funding coordination for port/harbor development, and as the Governor’s principal maritime policy advisor, as set forth in CGS § 15-31b.