Project Title: Rehabilitate Outer Island Sea Wall (FFS #R5HB)

State: Connecticut

Project Description: Off the coast of Connecticut lies a chain of ten islands Native Americans called Kuttomquosh, or “beautiful sea rocks.” Now known as the Thimble Islands, all but one of them are privately owned.

Outer Island, part of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, is the only one of the Thimble Islands the public can visit. $212,000 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding will be used to begin the rehabilitation of a sea wall on the southern side of the island. The structure has deteriorated, creating dangerous conditions for visitors. The Service has closed portions of the island to ensure public safety until repairs can be made.

“This project will greatly improve public access and create safer conditions on the island,” said refuge manager Richard Potvin.

The Service acquired Outer Island from Elizabeth Rauch in 1995, who maintained a residence there until her death in 2002. The Service has partnered with the Connecticut State University System to create an outdoor environmental education program on the five-acre island.

Stantec Consulting Services Inc., from Northampton, Mass., was awarded $35,000 to evaluate the stone seawall in February 2010. The company also designed and engineered the rehabilitation and stabilization of the seawall and other existing structures on the site.

In May 2010, KMK Construction Inc., an 8(a) certified service-disabled veteran owned small business, received a $179,500 contract to work on the project. The seawall itself was determined to be much more complicated to repair than originally anticipated and would require additional funds. The company used the remaining funds to address the highest priority part of the project, ensuring the safety of any future visitors or refuge staff. Railings were attached along the dock and the work area along the seawall.

This page was created by Keith Shannon, student intern for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Northeast Region, whose position is funded by the Recovery Act.

Originally posted 02/04/2010
Updated 09/23/2010
Updated 01/10/2011