Letter to Acting Secretary Doug Lamont, Army Corps Of Engineers - Prioritize Funding For Rte. 5 Project

Letter

Dear Acting Secretary Doug Lamont:

I write to reiterate my support for the nearly quarter mile long revetment and "splash apron" that will protect Route 5 along Lake Erie in Hamburg, New York. This project, which will create a new stone barrier to shield the roadway against high water levels and large storms, is of critical importance for both safety and to the regional economy. It is my hope that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will prioritize this project in the Corps' budget so the project may swiftly proceed to the implementation phase now that the design is complete.

Located on Lake Erie in Hamburg, Route 5 serves as a main artery between the city of Buffalo and communities to the south, carrying over 40,000 vehicles each day. Route 5 provides residents and visitors critical access to local businesses and schools.

Nearly a century old, the existing wall is crumbling and no longer able to absorb or drain the large waves that result from storms on the Lake, especially when southwest and west winds hit the shore. Drivers along Route 5 are at risk of being inundated with water as waves crash onto the roadway. In the winter, the water can freeze almost immediately creating even more dangerous conditions for drivers. This forces local officials to close the roadway cutting off vital access for the thousands of vehicles, local businesses, and schools that rely on Route 5.

The United States Army Corps of Engineers has finished the project design for the approximately 1,325-foot revetment and 15-foot wide "splash apron," and is now waiting on funding to begin construction. When completed, the revetment will serve as an improved safety barrier to protect the roadway against higher water levels and enable water to drain more quickly from the area. Designed foremost for safety, the barrier will double as a concrete pedestrian walkway along the shoreline. It is my hope that you will propose a budget with the appropriate resources to deliver this project quickly.

Thank you for your consideration of this important project. Route 5 plays a key role in the regional economy enabling residents and visitors access to businesses and school as well as travel across the area. Should you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact my staff.

Sincerely,

Charles E. Schumer

United States Senator

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