Politics & Government
Council Supports Opposition to Cliff Walk Proposal
Newport City Council passed a resolution Wednesday that supports the local surfing community's position that a project to repair the Cliff Walk should be made with minimal disruption to the waters.
Newport City Council swiftly and unanimously passed a resolution Wednesday “urging CRMC to ensure that the Ruggles Ave. surf break remains uninterrupted and the reef habitat is not harmed during or after repairs to the Cliff Walk."
The Department of Transportation (DOT) proposed they build temporary causeways to make repairs caused by Hurricane Sandy, which surfers and coastal experts are concerned may bring unintentional consequences.
“Although the causeways are labeled as temporary, we are concerned about impacts,” said Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) spokeswoman Laura Dwyer on Tuesday. CRMC staff continues to have concerns with the DOT project as proposed, and has suggested to DOT that the plans be revised, said Dwyer.
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Local surfers are also concerned the causeways may disrupt a popular surf break.
“Ruggles is known worldwide for surfers. More importantly, it’s a local surf break," said Sid Abruzzi, owner of Waterbrother’s surf shop in Newport. Abruzzi said he has seen a lot of kids come and go at other surf spots around Rhode Island.
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“At Ruggles, the kids never leave," said Abruzzi. "Ruggles is a natural playground that Newport offers. It shouldn’t be destroyed.”
Almost every seat in the council chambers was taken by supporters of the resolution. Many wore “Save Ruggles” shirts, which are sold Waterbrothers to raise money for Clean Ocean Access (COA), a local advocacy group which has served as a leader in the campaign.
“There are a lot of people here, we should welcome them,” said Councilor Justin McLaughlin, which brought the group to applause.
Resident David Livingston pointed out to councilors that an online petition, has garnished international attention and support.
“You are getting support from all over the world, you are also getting support from this city council,” said Mayor Harry Winthrop.
Winthrop said there is a meeting scheduled at 1:30 p.m. on Friday at Newport City Hall to review design alternatives with the Department of Transportation.
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