Federal engineers will decide whether to allow dredging on part of Gastineau Channel so that barges with deeper drafts can dock south of Salmon Creek.

The Juneau Empire reports Salmon Creek Development Co. submitted the request to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in early December.

Joseph Smith filed the application on behalf of the development company, which plans to deepen the barge landing on Channel Drive by as much as 10 additional feet (3 m).

Smith said the work timeline will depend on equipment availability.

The dock receives deliveries of construction materials like gravel.

Smith said these bulk products would be taken by truck through downtown Juneau if the barge landing stays as is.

A deadline for people to submit public comment was scheduled for Jan. 9.

For more information, visit http://www.juneauempire.com.