The town has moved one step closer to constructing a new transient dock at Police Cove.

On Tuesday night, May 26, the town's plan to build the dock received approval from CRMC (Coastal Resources Management Council). The green light from CRMC means Barrington can now advertise for bids for construction of the dock.

Phil Hervey, the director of planning, building and resiliency in Barrington, said the town is working with the environmental engineering and consulting services firm GZA on the project.

"I'm hoping construction can start in late summer," Mr. Hervey wrote in an email.

For years, town officials have discussed the idea of building a transient dock at Police Cove. In fact, the town received authorization from CRMC, the US Army Corps of Engineers, and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management to build a transient dock at the site back in 2005. But the dock was never constructed and the permits expired.

In 2019, Barrington officials were able to secure key funding for a new dock. A state Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program grant for $127,950 will cover about 75 percent of the cost of the project. Barrington will supply the remaining 25 percent funding — the local dollars will come from capital reserve accounts, said town officials.

The dock will extend 77 feet into the cove (it has a total length of 108 feet) and feature a 33-foot aluminum ramp and 320 square-foot float.

The transient dock will be located just north of the existing harbor patrol dock, which is inaccessible to the public. The transient dock will be built adjacent to the concrete boat ramp.

According to the application submitted to CRMC, the dock will be appropriate for use by boats 18- to 25-feet long and drawing 18 inches or less of water.

The site currently offers a renovated boat launch, plenty of parking, and easy access from Route 114.

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