Governor Charlie Baker is doling out more than $5 million in grants to support economic development in maritime communities.

One of the largest grants, $1 million, is going to Dartmouth so the town can purchase an existing structure in Padanaram Village and create a welcome center for visitors and boaters.

Rep. Chris Markey of Dartmouth says the boating community had raised the issue before.

"The way the boating community speaks of Padanaram Harbor is that its a great harbor scenically, but there isn't a lot of accomodations to take care of
us and our boats," said Markey.

Markey says the planned development should take care of some of those concerns, while giving the public greater access to the harbor.

Select Board Chairman Shawn McDonald told WBSM News, he was excited about the proposed development.

Also, New Bedford is receiving $250,000 to develop infrastructure and plans to bring more private development to the city's waterfront.

The grants were awarded through the Mass. Seaport Economic Council.

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