Mayor Joseph J. Solomon is heralding Tuesday’s arrival of ACK Marine’s (Quincy, Mass.) equipment and crew to Rocky Point for the commencement of construction of the new Rocky Point fishing pier. ACK has mobilized on both land and sea to begin demolition of the remnants of the old fishing pier followed by construction of the new $1.8 million DEM facility at Rocky Point.

Following that, they will begin construction of a new, $1.8-million, 280-foot, T-shaped fishing pier, which will feature varied rail heights, railings, solar lighting, a structure to provide shade, and benches for visitors to sit and take in the breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay. The barge will be the crew’s base of operations through the duration of the project, which is being paid for by DEM.

“This is an exciting day for everyone who loves Rocky Point,” Solomon said. “The fishing pier will provide another way for people to enjoy our beautiful park and provides another way to access Narragansett Bay.”

Since helping to lead the charge to preserve the park from development well over a decade ago, Mayor Solomon has worked cooperatively with the state Department of Environmental Management, Ward Five Councilman Ed Ladouceur and other federal, state and local leaders on a number of initiatives to provide park enhancements for the public to enjoy. Rocky Point each year continues to lure thousands of people for hiking, walking, bird watching, picnicking, special sporting and community events all within sweeping ocean views.