Lower Wharf is a historic public waterfront park and pier at the mouth of Southport Harbor. Originally built in the 18th Century to support a commercial shipyard, the property is owned by the Town of Fairfield and remains an important community resource for public access, fishing, scenic enjoyment, and events. The Park’s aging timber pier and waterfront retaining wall had deteriorated, both due to age and significant storm-related damage, and was closed off to public access.

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The Town engaged RACE to provide professional engineering services to restore safe public access and rehabilitate critical waterfront infrastructure. The project included reconstruction of the existing timber pier, replacement of portions of the stone seawall and revetment, and improvements to the supporting waterfront components.

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The project required close coordination among the Town, contractors, environmental specialists, and multiple regulatory agencies. After coordinating with environmental specialists to identify tidal wetland limits and benthic habitats, federal, state, and local permits were approved.

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RACE coordinated an update to the existing site survey, incorporating new upland topographic information extending to approximately Mean Lower Low Water. Existing hydrographic survey data previously prepared by RACE was incorporated into the design. The final design included replacement of approximately 90 feet of timber pier, 105 linear feet of seawall, reconstruction of the stone revetment, and replacement of approximately 217 linear feet of concrete cap. The new pier structure incorporated 20 timber piles and nine tension anchors to provide a durable structural system.

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RACE prepared the final engineering design drawings and specifications, assisted the Town with the bidding process, and provided construction administration services. Construction was performed by Colonna Concrete & Asphalt Paving and National Shoring.

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Posted October 2, 2026