WILMINGTON, DE — In response to recent breaches and near-breaches of coastal dunes north of the Indian River Inlet, Delaware Governor John Carney recently announced a series of emergency measures aimed at fortifying these natural barriers against the intensifying impact of storms. The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) are spearheading efforts to protect the vulnerable region, focusing on safeguarding Delaware Route 1, a critical thoroughfare for daily and emergency transportation.
Governor Carney acknowledged the escalating threats faced by the state’s coastal infrastructure. “This area is one of the most visible signs of the increasing effect of storms on our state,” he remarked, highlighting the urgency for immediate action. He commended the continuous repair work by state crews, noting the persistent threats to the dunes and highway during high tides.
DelDOT plans to reinforce the area by installing additional sheetpile walls—steel sheets driven vertically into the ground. This structural intervention aims to shield the roadway bed from further erosion. Concurrently, DNREC is preparing for an emergency sand replenishment project. Scheduled to commence in late November, this initiative will involve dredging and restoring the beach and dune system to bolster their resilience against upcoming winter storms.
Secretary of DNREC, Shawn M. Garvin, emphasized the need for rapid response, “While we have been working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on a longer-term solution, it is clear that even a matter of weeks might make a difference this winter.” He also acknowledged the support from the state’s congressional delegation, particularly Senator Carper, in securing future federal assistance.
The significance of these protective measures extends beyond environmental concerns; they are crucial for maintaining the operational integrity of Delaware Route 1. Secretary of DelDOT, Nicole Majeski, underscored the road’s critical role, stating, “Delaware Route 1 is critical for daily travel and for emergency vehicle access in the area, so additional steps are merited to protect it.”
Public cooperation is expected as access to the beach and nearby parking may be restricted while work is underway. DNREC has scheduled a community information session on September 25 at Bethany Beach Town Hall to discuss the history of the inlet’s maintenance, outline the planned emergency work, and present long-term strategies.
Governor Carney affirmed the administration’s commitment to ongoing collaboration with state legislators to secure the inlet’s protection and ensure the safety and welfare of Delaware’s coastal communities. This initiative represents a proactive approach to mitigating the risks posed by climate change-induced storm surges, reinforcing the state’s infrastructure against the forces of nature.
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