RACINE — The north breakwater at Racine Harbor, a crucial structure protecting the harbor and its surroundings, needs significant repairs after recent storms exacerbated existing damage.
This prompted government officials to seek federal assistance to fund the $7 million project to restore and maintain the breakwater.
Congressman Bryan Steil was involved in securing federal funding for local infrastructure projects, focusing on allocating resources to transportation and public safety in Racine County. His efforts aimed at supporting economic development and enhancing the quality of life for residents in the region.
“In 2020, winter storms caused significant damage to the Racine Harbor breakwater. Since then, the community has struggled to make necessary repairs to protect the historic downtown, the Lake Michigan shoreline, and the harbor from storms,” Steil said. “This bill will open avenues for Racine and other community harbors to receive federal assistance for critical water infrastructure projects.”
Detailed report reveals urgent need for repairs
A comprehensive report from GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc. detailed the extent of the damage.
While the underwater timber cribs, protected by armor stone, remain in fair condition, the above-water structures have suffered substantial wear and tear. Critical sections of the concrete cap are undersized, displaced, and exposed to harsh wave and ice action, resulting in severe spalling and large voids beneath the concrete surface, according to the report.
“The structural integrity of the breakwater cap is compromised, and repairs are recommended as soon as possible for the spalling area and the breakwater outer leg. These are recommended as high-priority items,” wrote Dan Veriotti, vice president of GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc.
The proposed repair plan includes filling voids with stone and grout, replacing the concrete cap, and installing new steel sheet piling. These measures are expected to extend the breakwater’s lifespan by 75 years.
Legislation Aims to Secure Federal Funding
In response to the urgent need, Congressman Bryan Steil (R-WI) has introduced legislation to secure federal funds for the project. Steil’s bill seeks to amend the Water Resources Development Act to prioritize maintenance projects for underserved community harbors, including those in the Great Lakes region. The bill specifically targets funding for the maintenance of breakwaters like the one in Racine Harbor.
“They (County officials) asked for help,” said Chavonne Ludick, communications director for Steils’ office. “Once they provided the report about the problem, Steil’s office got to work looking for solutions. That is when it became apparent that existing federal programs prioritize other locations over the Great Lakes.
“Rep. Steil’s legislation aims to change that to ensure the Great Lakes are made a priority and that this project has an opportunity to receive the assistance it merits.”
Bill awaits Committee consideration
The bill, introduced in the House of Representatives, aims to expand eligibility for federal assistance and ensure that projects in the Great Lakes region receive the attention and funding they deserve. The legislation could be included in the Water Resources Development Act, a larger bill with strong prospects of passing this year.
Steil’s office has been working closely with a coalition of organizations, including the Lake Carriers’ Association, the American Great Lakes Ports Association, the Great Lakes Commission, and Clean Wisconsin, to garner support. The bill has also received bipartisan backing from local legislators such as state Senators Van Wanggaard and Bob Wirch and state Representatives Greta Neubauer, Bob Wittke, and Tip McGuire.
Currently, the bill is awaiting consideration by the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. If it advances, it must pass both the House and Senate before being presented to the President for signing.
Importance of the breakwater to Racine
In the meantime, public access to the damaged sections of the breakwater remains restricted until the repairs are completed. The county and its partners continue to stress the importance of timely federal intervention to prevent further degradation and ensure the structural integrity of this essential maritime structure.
For more information on the progress of this legislation and its impact on Racine Harbor, stay tuned to Racine County Eye.
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