The deepening of the Delaware River has become a huge issue between the Pennsylvania and South Jersey politicians. Basically, the plan to dredge the Delaware River consists of increasing the depth of the river from 40 feet to 45 feet. Originally the proposal stated that the project would save over 40 million dollars in transportation costs per year. Since then that figure has been deemed inaccurate. One study actually shows that the benefits received from the project would only be 50 cents per dollar spent to do the actual project. But the supporters of this project claim it is essential for bringing back more business to the Philadelphia ports.
Not only does the economic perspective on the project not look to be very beneficial, there are environmental externalities to consider. The National Wildlife Federation says that the dredging will affect the horseshoe crabs, oysters, and migrating shore birds of the region. This project could ruin their habitat and food sources. There is also the threat of a possible contamination of the water from the project. Also, there is no clear plan to where the dredged muck will go. The main reason South Jersey is opposed to it is the Pennsylvania politicians want it to be dumped there instead of in their state. Representative Rob Andrews is a huge opponent for this main reason.
I personally don’t think this is a very good plan. With the environmental and economic costs being so high, it does not seem to offer much benefit. Also, since I am a resident of South Jersey, actually in Representative Andrews district, I agree with him. I think for this project to work they would need to find somewhere to actually put the muck dredged up that all states involved agree on, and figure out a way to decrease the costs and internalize the externalities.
-- Katie O'Riordan
