Press Releases

Last night, the House of Representatives passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2018 which seeks to strengthen our nation’s infrastructure by authorizing funding for locally driven investments, including the Carolina Beach renourishment project. 

“North Carolina’s 7^th Congressional District is fortunate to have some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States — a direct contributor to our state’s vibrant tourism industry.  As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I was pleased to be able to include language in the Water Resources and Development Act (WRDA) critical to the future of Carolina Beach.  I thank Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) and Ranking Member Peter DeFazio (D-OR) for their help and support of all of our federally authorized beaches in Southeastern North Carolina.”

BACKGROUND:  Carolina Beach’s Coastal Storm Damage Reduction project reached the end of its 50-year federal authorization in 2014.  The Water Resources and Development Act of 2018 includes Rouzer’s language to make clear that the Army Corps of Engineers’ potential extension for the Carolina Beach re-nourishment project would officially begin at the time of initiation of construction, which is a major priority for the Town of Carolina Beach.  Under current law, it could be easily left to interpretation as to when the statutory maximum 15-year extension of the project would start.  The bill language also includes an extension of authorized nourishment for an additional 3 years to prevent any disruption while the required study is being completed.

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