Congressman Mike Kelly is applauding the return of federal funding that will help protect one of Erie’s most popular destinations from erosion.
The news Erie News Now broke Friday — that Presque Isle State Park will receive $1.5 million in federal funding for sand replenishment — comes after two consecutive years without the federal share of money needed to rebuild the park’s beaches.
For years, the annual $3 million sand nourishment project has been funded through a combination of state and federal dollars. The investment helps fight erosion and maintain the beaches at Presque Isle, a major tourism asset for the region.
A bipartisan effort from Pennsylvania Senators John Fetterman and Dave McCormick helped restore access to the federal funding.
Kelly said maintaining the shoreline is critical because erosion continues to impact the park every year.
“Every year depending on how the winter is, they really need this sand because of erosion,” Kelly said. “I was really disappointed when I heard we weren’t going to get it. This year somehow Senator Fetterman was able to resurrect it, Senator McCormick’s on board with it, all the local politicians — so it’s a team effort.”
The sand replenishment project traditionally takes place in the spring before the start of the swimming season. However, because of the timing of the restored federal funding, the federally funded sand is expected to arrive this fall.
The additional sand will help rebuild and protect Presque Isle’s beaches as officials continue efforts to preserve the park for visitors.