ICYMI: Murphy, Wittman Announce New Legislation Regarding Oregon Inlet

Greenville, N.C.– ICYMI, Reps. Greg Murphy, M.D. (NC-03) and Rob Wittman (VA-01) have introduced legislation to conduct a feasibility study for constructing a dual jetty system at Oregon Inlet, North Carolina. Rep. Murphy first made the announcement at a press conference last week at the Dare County Administration Building alongside Dare County Board of Commissioners Chairman Bob Woodard and Commissioner Jim Tobin, Chairman of the Oregon Inlet Task Force. A recording of the press conference can be found HERE.

Click HERE for Rep. Murphy's full Oregon Inlet PowerPoint presentation.

"While dredging has been somewhat effective in easing the issues at Oregon Inlet, it's not a permanent solution," said Rep. Murphy. "It's clear that a dual jetty system, which requires an act of Congress, is necessary for long-term navigation, commerce and flood control purposes. I'm glad to introduce this legislation to authorize the Secretary of the Army to conduct a feasibility study for constructing a dual jetty system."

"I am happy to join Congressman Murphy in introducing the Oregon Inlet Jetty Feasibility Study Act," said Rep. Wittman. "This legislation is a major step in constructing a dual jetty system and easing a dire navigation situation at the Oregon Inlet. A dual-jetty system is key to end the constant shoaling. I appreciate Congressman Murphy's introduction of this bill and look forward to working with him to advance this legislation."

Background: Oregon Inlet is the only passible opening between the sound and ocean from Virginia and Hatteras Inlet. However, the inlet has been subject to near constant shoaling from recent storms, making it a serious hazard for vessel passage and navigation.

The total economic output of Oregon Inlet is over $682 million dollars, including $7 million in commercial fishing, $33 million in seafood packing, $139 million in boat construction, and $502 million in recreational fishing and tourism. The inlet employs 9,851 North Carolinians. There is great precedent for Rep. Murphy's legislation, as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has already constructed over 4,500 navigation and shore protection structures across U.S., with more than 480 jetties, 174 of them on the Eastern Seaboard.

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