In a letter dated February 18, Congressmen Jones and McIntyre asked Chairman Young to provide for emergency funds for dune and berm replacement in affected coastal communities; technical assistance grants to the North Carolina Shore and Beach Preservation Association to provide help for impacted communities to achieve long-term recovery; and funds for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to repair damages to navigation channels and harbors.

 “The beaches and waterways are big business in North Carolina.  The beaches serve as a key source of jobs, ranging from the real estate agent to the restaurant worker to the hotel clerk.  Moreover, the waterways provide economic livelihood to our fishermen, shippers, tug boat operators, and recreational users.  Due to the extreme nature of the hurricane season last year, many of North Carolina’s beaches and waterways suffered extensive damage.  Several of the beach communities lost miles of their beach and navigation channels, while many waterways remain clogged with debris and sand,” the Congressmen wrote.

 “Our beaches are in terrible shape,” Jones said.  “We must aggressively pursue support to help rebuild the critical infrastructure of our coastal communities and protect our valuable coastline. I will continue fighting to see that these needs are met.”   

Congressmen Jones and McIntyre are both members of the U.S. House of Representatives Coastal Coalition.