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| Photo by Tracey O'Neill |
STATE HOUSE – The
Senate has passed a resolution, sponsored by Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski (D-Dist.
37, South Kingstown, New Shoreham), urging the state’s Coastal Resources
Management Council (CRMC) to implement a plan to protect a section of shoreline
in South Kingstown.
Coastal erosion – whether it’s due to increased storm surge levels, heavier precipitation or an increase in frequency of storm-related flood damage – has taken a toll on the shores of Matunuck, creating the potential displacement of a significant number of residents, businesses and institutions.
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“This isn’t just about
protecting our shores or simple beach erosion,” Senator Sosnowski said. “If the
state continues to ignore the problem, we’re talking about some serious impacts
to the infrastructure, the economy and the lives of our residents.”
The resolution (2012-
S2922A) respectfully requests the CRMC to prepare a comprehensive and
detailed plan to address the effects of coastal erosion on the shoreline of
Matunuck and to identify necessary cooperating agencies that could assist in
the process.
It also notes a desire for the plan to consider preserving much of
the existing infrastructure and address the need for maintaining continuity of
access for public safety purposes.
Aside from including
cost estimates and the identification of funding sources, the resolution asks
that the plan include consultations with officials from the town of South Kingstown , as well
as affected business owners and residents.