Delaware River Dredging Continues

Port officials in Philadelphia say a massive project to deepen the Delaware River is about 60 percent complete.

Officials say workers finished dredging an 11-mile stretch last month. That means 38 miles have now been deepened from 40 feet to 45 feet.

Supporters say the project will allow larger ships to use local ports. But environmental groups have opposed the effort.

About 25 miles remain to be deepened. The next river segment slated for dredging is in the Delaware Bay. Work is expected to begin in September.

After that, bidding will begin for a stretch separating Philadelphia and Camden, N.J., according to The Philadelphia Inquirer.

The $300 million project began three years ago and is expected to be complete by 2017. It's being financed by local, state and federal agencies.

(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)