Posted on May 15, 2024
Several beach front communities along the Delaware Bay will benefit from additional funding provided by the federal government for beach restoration and storm protection systems like sand dunes.
Delaware Senator Tom Carper announced about $32-million in additional funding on Monday in Slaughter Beach.
$10-million is from Carper’s congressionally directed spending, while the remainder is in the Army Corps of Engineers budget.
“This funding will help restore the beach and dunes that help protect our communities along the bay and Delaware’s thriving beach economy,” said Senator Carper. “While we continue to invest in our coastline, we must also address the root causes of sea level rise and ever-growing storms caused by climate change. That’s why in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, which I was proud to help co-author and get passed, we are investing billions of dollars into protecting our planet from these threats for generations to come.”
“The State of Delaware appreciates Senator Carper’s commitment to securing our coastline from the impacts of climate change,” said DNREC Secretary Sean Garvin. “The funding provided through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Inflation Reduction Act, and Congressionally Directed Spending funding supported by the Senator’s leadership is beneficial to the State. As we scope and prioritize how these funds are used, we encourage our Bayshore communities to bring resources to the table to protect our communities.”
“Senator Carper has led the fight for Delaware’s coast his entire career in public service,” said Kathy Lock, president of the Bay Beach Association. “His relentless fight to protect and enhance our beaches, bays, wetlands and waterfronts continues and we are honored to have him here in Slaughter Beach today with great news about the Delaware Bay coast.”
Carper had previously obtained $26-million for the project, bringing total spending to $58-million.
Communities benefiting from the funding include Kitts Hummock, Slaughter Beach, Pickering Beach, Prime Hook Beach and Lewes Beach.
