Pay Me Now or Pay Me Later – It’s time to replace the Burying Hill Beach Jetty – FOR FREE!
The old aphorism suggests it’s better to invest early whereas waiting will cost more in the long run. This sign at Burying Hill Beach went up years ago after lobbying by the Greens Farms Association and concerned neighbors. The word “Dangerous” indicates the dire condition of the existing jetty. While the main purpose of the jetty is not for pedestrian traffic it still describes the poor condition of the structure, whose main purpose is to protect the beach. There is an opportunity to finally push this project through at NO COST to the Town of Westport:
- Losing the jetty means losing the beach.
- 30% to 40% of the structure has eroded or decayed away due to normal aging. It was built in 1958 and some research indicates the useful life of a jetty is 30 to 50 years.
- The office of the First Selectman already directed Public Works to obtain estimates and permits. This is a “shovel ready” project estimated to cost $900,000. Not acting now would allow these permits to expire, therefore wasting that investment.
- The Town of Westport is due to receive $4M CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act funding from the federal government. While this project is on a list submitted to the Board of Finance, there are many others under consideration competing for these funds.
As stated in numerous postings in 06880 over the years, there is a thriving community of users beyond just Greens Farms residents who enjoy the more informal, relaxed, and quiet nature of Burying Hill Beach versus the hustle / bustle of Compo Beach. If you agree please contact the Board of Finance by using the following link soon! Currently this will be up for consideration at their Tuesday, November 2nd meeting.
https://www.westportct.gov/Home/Components/StaffDirectory/StaffDirectory/201/387
Respectfully submitted
Art Schoeller
President
Greens Farms Association
