Massachusetts Port Authority approves $2m investment for capital improvements to prepare for the Sail Boston 2017

BOARD APPROVES INVESTMENT IN CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS FOR LANDMARK EVENT 

BOSTON, 2017-Jan-24 — /Travel PR News/ — Today (January 19, 2017), the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) Board of Directors voted to approve a $2 million investment for capital improvements to prepare for ships that will berth at Massport properties and the crowds expected at waterfront viewing locations in the Port of Boston as part of Sail Boston 2017.

One of Boston’s most beloved traditions, Sail Boston is returning to Boston Harbor this summer and Massport is proud to be a member of the team of city and state agencies investing in this iconic celebration of our city’s rich maritime history and global influence on the sailing industry. Over four million people are expected to attend Sail Boston events from June 17^th through June 22^nd, generating around $120 million for the local economy, according to the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau.

With large crowds expected all along Boston’s waterfront, these investments will help prepare Massport’s maritime infrastructure in the port to welcome and accommodate such a large number of spectators. Much of the work includes strengthening berthing facilities for vessels and repaving of walkways and spectator surfaces to improve public access to vessel viewing areas. This investment will not only prepare Massport facilities for Sail Boston, but will improve infrastructure at these properties for years to come.

“Boston’s history is inextricable from Boston Harbor and Sail Boston is a celebration of the enormous impact our state and city has had on the global sailing community and maritime history as a whole,” said Massport CEO Thomas P. Glynn. “Massport is a proud partner in bringing Sail Boston back for its fourth time and introducing a new generation to the grandeur of our maritime history.”

Sail Boston celebrates Boston’s rich maritime history and influence in the sailing world and has been held three previous times – 1992, 2000 and 2009 – to significant crowds and fanfare. Nearly forty vessels are already confirmed to be participating in Sail Boston 2017; the highlight of which is the Grand Parade of Sail, which will have the vessels parade in flotillas from Broad Sound into the main channel of Boston Harbor turning at Charlestown, before proceeding to their assigned berthing areas. Public viewing of the parade will be most accessible from Castle Island, the South Boston Waterfront, the Boston Waterfront, East Boston, the North End and Charlestown.

Sail Boston is free and open to the public, though some activities are ticketed. With an event this large, security is the top priority for all members of the Sail Boston team and Massport is working closely with our partners in the City of Boston, Commonwealth of Massachusetts and various law enforcement agencies to ensure this beloved tradition is safe and enjoyable for all who wish to participate.

SOURCE: Massport

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(617) 568-3100

Matthew Brelis, Director of Media Relations

Jennifer Mehigan, Assistant Director of Media Relations

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