Bayfront Advisory Commission Update

The BAC meeting on March 20th included several updates:

The COVB Public Works Dept spreadsheet of PW projects shows current status of Public Works projects along Shore Dr. Updates are in red.

BAC Chair Bob Magoon shared that the working group established by Councilman Joash Schulman has had several meetings to monitor the PHP Wetlands project and address concerns and look for solutions. Lynnhaven River NOW was invited to the BAC to share concerning the efforts to save saplings and grasses.

Ms Pullin related that they have consulted with a professor from the College of William and Mary, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources staff, and the Wetlands Institute in New Jersey to develop a plan for a barrier to prevent diamondback terrapin from entering the excavation and construction area.  “This barrier system has been used effectively on the Eastern Shore and on the New Jersey shore to keep terrapin off roadways and safe from cars.  We have confidence in this system but will also be monitoring it regularly throughout the construction period.”

The meeting was well attended and many members of the public voiced concerns in particular about protections for wildlife during the project time. Fencing should now be in place to prevent turtles from entering the area as they come out of winter brumulation. Wildlife rehabbers have been on call but so far no cases of wildlife needing assistance have come up.

Ms. Pullin related that more information on the project at the Brock Center. There is a binder that the public can view at the Brock building.