Advocates to Speak Up Against Cliff Walk Proposal Tonight

Tonight advocates will express their concerns to the Newport City Council regarding a proposal by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to repair damages made by Tropical Storm Sandy to the Cliff Walk. 

Although the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) has concerns about the proposal, they are still in their review process, said CRMC spokeswoman Laura Dwyer on Tuesday.  No decisions have been made to grant or deny the DOT a permit.

A controversial component of the proposal is the construction of temporary causeways, that would be built to provide access to the work site. 

“Although the causeways are labeled as temporary, we are concerned about impacts,” explained Dwyer.  

Additionally, local surfers have spoken up against the causeways, fearing the structures would disrupt a popular surf break at Ruggles.  A petition to reject the proposal has reached over 6,000 supporters Tuesday.

“When you are proposing any sort of coastal activity, we want a minimal impact,” said Dwyer.  The CRMC said they would likely recommend their council deny the permit for the proposal unless it was scaled-back.  Last week, DOT verbally told CRMC they would submit a revised proposal for review. 

CRMC's decision making body is made by a 10-member council appointed by the governor. The council is made up of individuals from a diverse set backgrounds, from business to scientists, in order to provide a balanced perspective. Staff are putting together a report with a recommendation, but the decision to deny or approve a proposal is ultimately up to the council, said Dwyer.

“The process doesn't move quickly,” she added.  “It will take time from where we are now.” 

Once the DOT submits the revised proposal, the CRMC plans to make it available on their website.