KINGSTON — The Port of Kingston’s anticipated maintenance dredge will likely start at the end of August or early September.

Port Manager Kori Henry said once the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers public comment period ends July 26, they will receive the final permit, barring any negative comment that needs addressing. The port will publish their requests for bids mid-August.

The dredge will last for two weeks.

The port began applying for permits in September 2012, but have been planning for the dredge since the opening of Carpenter Creek estuary in January 2012. The removal of the too-small fish culvert under West Kingston Road increased sedimentation in the cove, affecting boat traffic. The port declared a state of emergency to speed the permit process when it became clear the cove was becoming shallower because of silt buildup. Boats grounded and A, B and C docks were sometimes inaccessible.

The port met with the Corps of Engineers, state Department of Fish and Wildlife and Kitsap County for permits, as well as the Suquamish Tribe, whose fisheries department often launches from Kingston. Hydrographic and environmental surveys were conducted to test the quality of the soil; the soil tested clean and will be disposed of upland. Preliminary estimates put the dredging cost around $450,000.

The marina was originally dredged in 1967, and again in 1993 for the boat launch.

“We’re very excited, to get this done is going to be huge,” Henry said.

The maintenance dredge will widen the entrance to Appletree Cove and take away the excess silt causing a shallow bottom. During the dredge, boats will be able to enter and exit the cove once in the morning and once in the afternoon. The cove will be open to traffic in the evenings.