LEWES, Del. - The sound of waves crashing on the beach is part of daily life in Lewes, but the scenic coastal setting also comes with a growing threat: rising sea levels and increased flooding risk.
In response, the city has drafted a resiliency fund aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and strengthening Lewes’ climate resilience.
The public comment period will close May 2 at 4 p.m.
Local Barbara Smith supports the initiative, citing her concerns about long-term environmental impacts.
“If we want to still have a wonderful area, a wonderful Earth period, we need to do something about it; take better care,” said Smith.
The city hopes to grow the fund to between $3 million and $5 million over the next five to seven years. Funding would come from multiple existing sources, including parking meter collections, property taxes, and transfer tax revenue.
One of the fund's goals is to protect natural resources through conservation and restoration projects, such as the city’s wetlands.
Robyn Cross, who visits the beach nearly every day, says she believes the fund is critical for the city’s future.
“All you need is one disaster,” said Cross. “And for Lewes, being on the water between the bay and the ocean, I think we are very susceptible for just one event, even to happen.”
The city says some sample projects could include flood gates, seawalls, stormwater pump stations and public education and training programs.