Fairhope, Alabama
STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED
The city council held a special meeting this afternoon to declare a 'state of emergency' to expedite repairs to the north face of the pier seawall which sustained serious damage overnight.
Over time, exposed 1.25 inch steel supporting rods had seriously-rusted and some had broken causing the wall to slip down about two to three inches: It could collapse completely if not stabilized.
Installing wooden pilings in front for support was a temporary solution being discussed but building officials say none may be available and that may not hold so other methods are under consideration including welding chains to replace the broken rods but that depends on the condition of metal tiebacks under the ground not yet inspected.
The state of emergency was declared to expedite the repair/bidding process: building officials hope the wall can be stabilized in time for the annual July 4th celebration and then more permanent repairs made.
Another special meeting may need to be called next week to award the contract.
No cost estimates were given during the meeting.
If president Trump declares 'Cindy' a federal disaster, then FEMA repair funds could become available.
(The temporary emergency repairs would not be covered by FEMA)
The wall was constructed in the 1970s, according to councilman Boone (others say the 60s).
STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED
The city council held a special meeting this afternoon to declare a 'state of emergency' to expedite repairs to the north face of the pier seawall which sustained serious damage overnight.
Over time, exposed 1.25 inch steel supporting rods had seriously-rusted and some had broken causing the wall to slip down about two to three inches: It could collapse completely if not stabilized.
Installing wooden pilings in front for support was a temporary solution being discussed but building officials say none may be available and that may not hold so other methods are under consideration including welding chains to replace the broken rods but that depends on the condition of metal tiebacks under the ground not yet inspected.
The state of emergency was declared to expedite the repair/bidding process: building officials hope the wall can be stabilized in time for the annual July 4th celebration and then more permanent repairs made.
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| city council today |
No cost estimates were given during the meeting.
If president Trump declares 'Cindy' a federal disaster, then FEMA repair funds could become available.
(The temporary emergency repairs would not be covered by FEMA)
The wall was constructed in the 1970s, according to councilman Boone (others say the 60s).
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| Broken steel rod. |
Comments
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/09/us/politics/trump-budget-coast-guard.html
The brick pavers have needed frequent attention though; no doubt past storms caused considerable unseen wear on the seawall itself.