Constructed between 1962 and 1966, the Matagorda Ship Channel is an approximate 26-mile long deep draft channel from the Gulf of Mexico to Port Lavaca. This project will address the channel’s insufficient width and depth, which limits vessel size and increases the potential for pilot error during times of high winds, waves, and shoaling. (Shoaling occurs when the channel naturally becomes increasingly shallow through the build-up of sediment.) In addition, the width of the existing turning basin also limits vessel size.

The objectives of the Matagorda Ship Channel Improvement Project are to:  Increase port efficiencies and reduce transportation costs; utilize dredged material beneficially to protect and/or restore significant ecological and historical resources; and reduce risks to life safety and local infrastructure.  This will be accomplished by extending, deepening, and widening the channel to varying depths and widths.

Latest update (8/4/2023):

Today, a new Notice of Intent has been published in the Federal Register, extending the scoping period for another 30 days due to an incorrect e-mail address published in the June 2, 2023 NOI and the June 7, 2023 scoping meeting invitation and meeting materials. Public scoping intends to seek public input on the scope of the Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement, information, or topics to be addressed, and public concerns surrounding the proposed action.

Scoping input can be submitted between August 4 and September 5, 2023 by the following ways:

By email: MSC_SEIS@usace.army.mil  

By U.S. mail:   

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Galveston District

ATTN: Matagorda Ship Channel Improvement Project

P.O. Box 1229

Galveston, TX 77553-1229