Celebrating Our Harbormasters
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Last Updated
By US Harbors.
Two Extra Special Harbormaster Tributes
“Norwalk Harbor Master Bruce Lovallo, a former officer with the Norwalk Marine Police, has consistently exemplified extraordinary dedication, going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the safety and education of boat club members, rowing club enthusiasts, and all who venture into Norwalk Harbor. His unwavering commitment and proactive initiatives deserve our heartfelt gratitude.
Mr. Lovallo’s passion for safety education are exemplary. He has taken it upon himself to enlighten boat club members and rowing club participants about the unique challenges posed by the ongoing construction of the railroad bridge (Walk Bridge) over the Norwalk River. The Walk Bridge is a four-track railroad bridge that spans the Norwalk River and serves as a critical link on the Northeast Corridor for MetroNorth and Amtrak railroad. His efforts have not only enhanced safety awareness but have also ensured that everyone on the water is well-informed about the potential risks and precautions needed in a dynamic harbor that includes recreational and commercial vessels as well as construction barges and cranes.
The construction of a railroad bridge is no small feat, especially in a bustling harbor like Norwalk. Mr. Lovallo’s exceptional coordination skills have played a pivotal role in ensuring that large work barges, cranes, and work vessels involved in this complex project are seamlessly integrated into the harbor’s daily operations. His expertise in strategically placing moorings for these vessels has not only ensured their safe berthing but also helped protect delicate shellfish resources while preventing disruptions to regular harbor activities.
Mr. Lovallo’s impact reaches beyond the technical aspects of his role. He has fostered a sense of community and collaboration among the various stakeholders in Norwalk Harbor. His open communication and willingness to engage with boat club members, rowing club enthusiasts, and construction crews have created an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding. Through his efforts, he has transformed Norwalk Harbor into a space where everyone can be heard and valued. Norwalk Harbor Master Bruce Lovallo serves as fine example of what dedication, initiative, and a commitment to safety can achieve in a maritime community. His unwavering efforts to educate, coordinate, and build bridges within the community have made Norwalk Harbor a safer and more welcoming place for all. It is with the utmost appreciation and respect that we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bruce Lovallo for his exceptional service and commitment to excellence. Not just a Harbormaster, Mr. Lovallo serves as a true guardian of Norwalk Harbor’s vitality and safety.”
The other wonderful tribute we received is from K. Taylor about her Southport, CT harbormaster, Brian LeClerc, which is an excellent description of the variety of complex things harbormasters have to do to keep our harbors running smoothly:
“In our small harbor of mostly pleasure boats our Harbor Master, Brian LeClerc, is responsible for a lot of things including: safety drills and safety training; harbor and shoreline inspection; debris removal; coordination with USCG regarding aids to navigation; assistance to boats and swimmers in distress; preparing for dredging; mooring management and inspection; safety education; patrol and enforcement; and community relations.”
Our team at US Harbors sends our best wishes to all of our harbormasters, port masters, dockmasters, and marine police!