Last week, Governor Dan McKee held the annual Rhode Island State to State Address at the State House located in Providence, Rhode Island. The State of the State address is to show the plans the governor has for the state in the next year, highlighting his renewed focus on income, education, housing, and his general spending plans. Governor McKee invited Terry Gray, Director of the Department of Environmental Management to the speech, who invited Ryan Clark, President and CEO of The Town Dock as his guest.
The Town Dock would like to take this opportunity to thank Governor McKee, the RI DEM, and many others for their support and recognition of the significance that the Port of Galilee holds for Rhode Island. As a major economic hub, the port generates thousands of employment opportunities within the local community, continuously fostering growth for the state. We remain committed to our mission of providing exceptional products and contributing to the continued success of the Port of Galilee and the state of Rhode Island as a whole.
The Town Dock calamari can be recognizable around the world! A large testament to our expertise and deep-rooted knowledge in the seafood industry. Located in the Port of Galilee, the Town Dock is a market leader in both foodservice and retail calamari. We take great pride in our ability to consistently provide our customers with the finest product available.
Over the years, the Port of Galilee has experienced remarkable growth and development, solidifying its position as one of the most valuable fishing hubs along the east coast. In terms of economic significance, it proudly ranks fourth among all fishing ports on the east coast. On a national scale, the Port of Galilee stands tall as the 18th highest value fishing port, making it a vital contributor to the fishing industry.
Recognizing the importance of preserving and enhancing the Port of Galilee, the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has embarked on a series of significant initiatives. Demonstrating their commitment to protecting this vital Rhode Island hub from the ongoing global threats, the DEM is working on a large-scale project to replace 1,000 feet of steel bulkheads. This undertaking also includes the removal and replacement of heavy-duty docks to be able to accommodate large commercial vessels. Strengthening the infrastructure of the port will undoubtedly enhance the safety and overall well-being of our local fishermen. Additionally, raising the heights of the bulkheads and docks will serve as a defense against rising sea levels and potential storm surges. Through a multi-year investment, the DEM aims to implement more safety, security, and resilience of the Port of Galilee in the face of climate change.
Originally established as a commercial fishing port by the State of Rhode Island in the 1940s, the Port of Galilee has evolved into one of the largest and most bustling commercial fishing ports on the entire East Coast. With hundreds of fishing vessels utilizing its facilities, the port provides fishermen with unparalleled access to both national and international markets. Beyond its significance to the fishing industry, the Port of Galilee also contains numerous small businesses, including restaurants, shops, and even the iconic Block Island Ferry. It not only supports a critical economic industry for Rhode Island but also showcases the rich cultural heritage of the state.
The Town Dock takes immense pride in being a family-owned business for over 40 years in the beautiful state of Rhode Island. Along the shores of Point Judith, in Narragansett, our state-of the art facilities are strategically located in the bustling Port of Galilee. What began as a small family venture in Rhode Island has blossomed into the successful company we are today; the changes and support that are happening here are truly changing lives. Once again, we would like to thank the State of Rhode Island, Governor Dan Mckee and the RIDEM for their continued support of the Port.