Representative Kelly Commends U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Decision to Continue Funding for Presque Isle Sand Replenishment Project

Representative Kelly Commends U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Decision to Continue Funding for Presque Isle Sand Replenishment Project

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (PA-03) issued the following statement on yesterday’s announcement by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that it will continue to provide funds for sand replenishment at Presque Isle State Park for fiscal year 2011:

“I commend the Army Corps of Engineers’ decision to ensure that the beaches of Presque Isle will be replenished in time for this year’s summer tourist season. Presque Isle State Park is an important economic and natural resource, attracting an average of four million visitors a year to its pristine shoreline and recreational activities.

“Efforts to preserve the beaches of Presque Isle were done with bi-partisan support from local, state and other federal officials, including Senators Casey and Toomey, all of whom came together to encourage the Corps to continue its support of this critical project. I am grateful to everyone who rallied to save the beaches, especially Park staff, including Operations Manager Harry Leslie, whose commitment to this important cause has been unwavering.

“In February, I wrote a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers asking the Corps to keep the Presque Isle Sand Replenishment Project a high-priority project in the FY 2011 budget. In addition,  I contacted the chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives’ Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to draw his attention to the need to preserve Presque Isle’s coastline and the economy it helps support. Lastly, I voted against an amendment that would have cut all funding for beach replenishment projects by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.  Fortunately, this amendment failed overwhelmingly with my staunch opposition. 

“Ultimately, the fate of Presque Isle rested in the budget priorities established by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and I congratulate them for acknowledging the value that Presque Isle holds for the 3^rd District and for all who visit its beautiful shores.”

###