Attn: Texas ASBPA Members and Friends
As you know RESTORE funds are being issued and several worthwhile projects along the Texas coast are under consideration. Two projects for Galveston are described below. I know several of you are not involved with Galveston but for those who are aware of the projects, the Galveston Parks Board of Trustees could use your help in sending your support to the Governor’s office as described below.
If any member is on the list to be considered for RESTORE funds and need help from the Texas ASBPA Chapter to please let me know.
As usual thanks again for your support and assistance.
Jerry Mohn
President
Deadline for public comment has been extended to Friday, June 30th @ 5pm central time at rcomments@tceq.texas.gov
Galveston RESTORE Projects
Galveston is poised to receive $10 million in funds for two ambitious projects that will enhance the East End Lagoon (EEL) and keep our beaches healthy. For the next six weeks, the Galveston community will play a key role in making sure these projects become a reality.
In April, two Park Board projects – a pavilion at the EEL and a beach nourishment project — received the green light for grant funding from the Resources and Ecosystems Sustainability, Tourist Opportunities and Revived Economies (RESTORE) Act. On May 12, a 45-day public comment period for input on these projects began. And that’s where you come in.
The Texas Governor’s office needs to hear from you. His staff will make the final decision about awarding funding for the projects. Public comment is among several criteria by which the projects will be scored. Since there are more funds being requested than are available, public support for them is critical.
Comments supporting the projects should be sent by 5:00 p.m. CST on June 26, 2017 to: rcomments@tceq.texas.gov
“Galveston Beneficial Dredge”
The beach nourishment project is eligible to receive $9 million for sand placement along the Seawall west of 61st Street in 2019 and 2021. In addition to providing added recreational area for visitors and residents, the extra sand will provide protection from storm surges. In 2015, a similar project placed 629,000 cubic yards of sand along the area and resulted in the creation of nearly a mile of new beach.
Galveston Beneficial Dredge Sample Support Letter
“East End Lagoon Phase 1A”
The East End Lagoon pavilion project could receive $1.4 million for the development of an elevated open-air pavilion with tables and benches, restrooms, an ADA-compliant “experience pier,” parking, signage, landscaping and interpretive nature trails. The project protects habitat, preserves the ecosystem, diversifies tourism, and promotes economic and ecologic resiliency.
East End Lagoon Sample Support Letter
For information about all the Texas projects being considered, including Galveston’s, visit Texas’ RESTORE web site, www.restorethetexascoast.org. Here you’ll find general information about the projects, information on the review and selection process, and a map showing the locations of the projects.
We have attached Word files for your use to cut and paste and send in for public comment. Please alter as you deem fit for a more personal touch. Please feel free to forward this request to friends and colleagues that you think would have interest in the projects and would like to support them. Thank you for helping; your time and effort is greatly appreciated.