Senator Collins Announces More than $600,000 Grant for Washburn & Doughty Associates, Inc.

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), the Chairman of the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, announced that Washburn & Doughty Associates, Inc., of East Boothbay has been awarded $618,750 through the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) Small Shipyard Grant Program.  This funding will assist Washburn & Doughty in purchasing and installing a new lathe and robotic welding machine.

“This funding for a new lathe and robotic welding machine is welcome news for the hardworking men and women of Washburn & Doughty Associates, Inc.,” said Senator Collins.  “This equipment will enhance the shipyard’s productivity, capabilities, and competitiveness while helping to grow the Boothbay region’s economy.”

Established in 1977, Washburn & Doughty Associates, Inc. specializes in the construction of steel and aluminum commercial vessels.  The shipyard has built a diverse mix of tugboats, commercial passenger vessels, fishing boats, barges, ferries, and research vessels.

The purpose of the MARAD Small Shipyard Grant Program is to foster efficiency; competitive operations; and quality ship construction, repair, and reconfiguration in small shipyards across the United States.  It also promotes employee skills and enhanced productivity related to shipbuilding, ship repair, and associated industries.