Washington,
Oct 31 -
Congresswoman Thelma Drake announced today that the Department of Defense (DoD) will release the previously held $26.4 million for the Seawall Repair/Improvement and Pier Replacement at Fort Monroe in Hampton, VA.
“The announcement by DoD to release the $26.4 million dollars is a major victory for the City of Hampton and the Army families that call Fort Monroe home,” said Congresswoman Drake. “The current seawall is severely damaged and will not protect the families and historical properties from the effects of a major hurricane. This funding is absolutely critical to ensure a new seawall is built that will protect life and property in future storms.
“This victory comes as a result of a team effort. I greatly appreciate the support lent by Senator John Warner and Senator George Allen in helping to demonstrate to Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England the importance of the seawall in preserving Fort Monroe.”
The seawall project came as a result of Hurricane Isabel in 2003, which severely damaged the existing structure. Funding was secured in the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense and for the Reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan, 2004.
Due to the decision by the Base Realignment and Closure Commission to close Fort Monroe, the project was shelved. However, Congresswoman Drake, along with Senators Warner and Allen, convinced DoD officials that the project should continue because the seawall was vital to the preservation of life and property.
Deputy Secretary England reevaluated the project and agreed with the conclusions of the delegation and announced the release of the funds in a letter to Armed Services and Defense Appropriations committees today, which is required by law.
