- November 7, 2024
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Bill Nelson addressed media members and local officials about the Hurricane Matthew recovery in Flagler Beach. Photos by Jeff Dawsey
Senator Nelson was welcomed by Commissioner Barbara Revels.
Senator Nelson and county officials went out to take a look at the Flagler Beach Pier damages.
According to City Manager Larry Newsom, the pier lost 160 feet from the hurricane.
U.S. Senator Bill Nelson came to Flagler Beach on Wednesday, Oct. 19, to get a firsthand look at the damage caused by Hurricane Matthew.
Nelson met with local officials and walked a couple yards down the pier, saying he had met with bridge engineers earlier in the morning to discuss the road damage.
Since S.R. A1A is a federal highway, he said, it will be repaired with federal dollars.
And, Nelson said, “If you’re going to fix the road, you ought to protect the road by restoring the beach.” The audience applauded. When asked if he favored seawalls or beach renourishment, Nelson said he preferred renourishment.
The senator mentioned his efforts in getting the necessary authorization for Flagler Beach restoration, but he also added that the money that would come from a funding bill would may take a few months, due to his meeting sessions beginning after the election.
Nelson said FEMA staff are already doing damage assessments.
Palm Coast Mayor Jon Netts said, “We as a community and as a county have worked together – neighbor helping neighbor. Now the time has come where we need the government to help us.”
It could take at least four months to reopen all of A1A, but efforts are being made to clear at least one lane for traffic, according to county officials.
