Cedarhurst seeks funding for Chesapeake Bay shoreline restoration project

Cedarhurst On The Bay is poised to address its failing shoreline with the support of a critical bill, HB 1467, which aims to streamline funding access for shoreline restoration projects. During a recent Environment and Transportation Committee session, Pam Foster, representing Cedarhurst, highlighted the community's struggle to utilize $56,000 in shoreline erosion control district funds for necessary repairs.

The Anne Arundel County Office of Law has classified the restoration of Cedarhurst's half-mile hardened shoreline as a new project, complicating the funding process. This interpretation, deemed illogical by community representatives, has led Cedarhurst to seek legal assistance to negotiate access to over $200,000 in accumulated funds. Foster urged lawmakers to amend Maryland code regarding shoreline erosion control to prevent similar issues for other communities.

The bill has garnered unanimous support from the Anne Arundel County delegation, emphasizing its urgency. Delegate Howard noted that the project aims to transition from a hardened shoreline to a living shoreline, aligning with best practices for environmental sustainability. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has expressed support for this shift, indicating a preference for more ecologically friendly shoreline solutions.

As Cedarhurst navigates these challenges, the committee's discussions reflect a broader commitment to improving shoreline management and ensuring communities can effectively access necessary resources for environmental restoration. The next steps will involve further legislative action to amend the code and facilitate the funding process, paving the way for Cedarhurst's restoration efforts.