Bayonne Dry Dock received a $673,123 grant from the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD), an agency that is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, for equipment and workforce training.

By John Heinis/Hudson County View

Speaking at a press conference, Bayonne Dry Dock Executive Vice President and General Counsel Ryan Patrick Woerner said that the funding would enable the company to increase efficiency, modernize operations, and develop the workforce

“The federal funding, coupled with direct financial investment from Bayonne Dry Dock, will directly support the acquisition of an integrated ultra-high-pressure hydro-blasting and surface preparation systems,” the company said in a statement afterwards.

“The funding will also support skilled training for Bayonne Drydock’ s over. 300 dynamic employees to effectively integrate and maintain the new systems.”

The grant is part of MARAD’s initiative to support small shipyards throughout the country.

Additionally, U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez (D-8) called Bayonne Dry Dock “a critically important
facility” for national security and industry. He noted that the Peninsula City facility is
the largest dry dock in the northeast.

He addd that the innovations happening with the grant would “bring the big wins back.”

State Senator Angela McKnight (D-31) thanked Bayonne Dry Dock for investing its own funds in equipment and training at the workplace, and not just relying on federal money.

She continued that when the right investments are made, “amazing things happen,” also thanking the dry dock workers and their team.

Further, Assemblyman Jerry Walker (D-31) said that the federal grant would “enhance the
ability to work as well as produce.”

He also said to the dry dock employees that he was “proud to stand with you,” noting he looked forward to working with the new administration in Bayonne.

“As the home of Bayonne Dry Dock, our city understands firsthand the importance of maintaining a strong maritime industry. Bayonne has a proud maritime history, and facilities like Bayonne Dry Dock are an important part of our city’s economic future,” concluded Bayonne Mayor Sharon Ashe-Nadrowski.

“These investments help ensure that Bayonne remains a vital part of the Port of New York and New Jersey and our nation’s maritime infrastructure.”

At the end of the presser, a New York Fire Department boat put on a water
spray show in the harbor to mark the occasion.