Port Austin Light it. Restoration efforts continue. Decking has been covered with galvanized metal shingles, and painted in the bright red that is historically accurate. Railings were affixed to the access ladder, and safety chains edging the deck were replaced. Installed also were a new brick chimney and 18 new windows. In 1990, PARLA's license to renovate the structure was extended through 2020. Current restoration continues by the Port Austin Reef Light Association. The light is not open for tours. It is a long and difficult trip to the light, which is always hindered by the reef, and often by the fog. However,
U.S. Army Engineer Port Repair ship U.S. Army Engineer Port Repair ship The U.S. Army acquired ten ships during World War II as Engineer Port Repair Ships, also sometimes known as Port Rehabilitation ships, for use by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to clear war damaged harbors. The need was anticipated by 1942 for the post invasion recovery of ports in Europe and the Transportation Corps was assigned the responsibility to acquire and modify the ships that would be military crewed under the Corps of Engineers. The European Command had formed a request for port repair ships in 1942. Such a ship had never been