SSA Woods Hole project gets final approval

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Construction continues on a new terminal for the Steamship Authority in Woods Hole. — Cameron Machell

The state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) this week issued the final waterways license the Steamship Authority needs for its reconstruction and expansion project at its Woods Hole terminal. Ed Coletta, a spokesman for the DEP, announced the state’s decision this week in an email to the Times.

DEP commissioner Martin Suuberg issued the license, signed by Gov. Charlie Baker. Mr. Suuberg’s final decision supported the permit hearing officer’s conclusion made last month, Mr. Coletta wrote.

A group of Falmouth residents had unsuccessfully opposed the waterways license, arguing that work on the ferry slips at the Woods Hole terminal would adversely affect navigation of boaters near the slip. Further appeals will have to be made in superior court, according to Mr. Coletta.

Steamship officials say the changes to the terminal slips won’t lead to an increase in ferry trips to and from the Island.