At last, new pier for Pine Point

A bird’s-eye view of the new Pine Point Pier, completed at a
cost of $800,000. Photo courtesy Dave Corbeau

Scarborough Harbor Master Dave Corbeau
poses with one of two Jib Cranes
 adorning the newly rebuilt Pine Point Pier,
promising to be a boon to the 25
commercial fishermen who work the pier.

SCARBOROUGH — When Dave Corbeau took over as Scarborough’s harbor master 15 years ago, the pier at Pine Point was “looking pretty ratty” even then.

Built in 1971 and meant to handle foot traffic only, the 100-foot-long pier allowed the 15 local fishermen of that era easier access to the boats. However, by 2002, the working waterfront had grown to 66 full-time users, including deep-sea fishermen, lobstermen and clammers. That many men on a pier only usable at low tide gave fisherman a two-hour window each day to load and unload their gear.

Even under ideal conditions, the task of loading up was “back-breaking” work, says Corbeau, requiring fishermen to “touch their traps” or bait barrels multiple times, from boat, to dingy, to pier to truck.

So, in 2002, talks began on the possibility of a new pier. Several meetings led to a study and in 2004, work was launched in earnest, culminating in initial construction last fall.

Two weeks ago, a new $800,000 pier at the end of King Street was completed by C. White Marine Inc. of Danvers, Mass. The new facility, more than twice as wide as the original, and usable in all tides, includes two Jib Cranes, each capable of moving one ton of product. It comes with amenities such as electricity and fresh water at the far end, and is sturdy enough for a fuel truck to drive out the far end to service a boat directly.

“It’s awesome,” said Corbeau, Monday. “It’s a lot more work for me, or whoever follows in my footstep, because now you’ve got cranes, lights and security camera to look after, but this really makes life a lot easier for the fishermen. It’ll save a few years on their backs, for sure.”

“This should really revolutionize and make the lives of the commercial fishermen that much easier,” said Town Mananger Tom Hall. “Not only will their work be easier, but now they are no longer dependent on the tides.”

Funding sources included $165,000 in Small Harbor Improvement Project grants issued through the Department of Transportation and $252,000 from Land of Maine’s Future.  The balance – $400,000 – was covered by local taxpayers.

“The town has some historical involvement, and responsibility, I think”, said Hall, explaining the public financing. “Its useful life will far surpass the length of time needed for financing purposes.”

“The impact on the town is huge,” said Corbeau, “You’re talking all the lobsters that come in, and the revenue for those families, who spend their money here. It’s really a good deal for the town.”

However, the fishermen will make up some of the cost. User fees are on the table, to be hammered out by the town council at a later date.

The state money did come with some strings. A deed covenant now ensures that the land that supports the working waterfront will remain forever dedicated to that purpose.

At 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 10, a brief ceremony will be held to celebrate completion of the new pier. Nothing elaborate, said Hall, just a ribbon cutting, a few words from Corbeau, Town Council Chairwoman Judith Roy, and, maybe, if they’re willing, a couple of usually camera-shy fisherman.

“From my perspective, it’s important to take a moment, take a breath and take stock in the accomplishment,” said Hall.