$90,000 assigned to mitigate coastal erosion in Loíza

By The Star Staff

District 37 Rep. Carmen Medina Calderón announced on Wednesday an allocation of $90,000 for the purchase of rip rap stones as part of an effort to mitigate the effects of coastal erosion in Parcelas Suárez, a community in Loíza impacted by a storm surge last Saturday.

“We have urgently managed these funds to help prevent the sea from continuing to enter several streets of Parcelas Suárez,” Medina said, adding that the project includes the creation of a rock platform, often referred to as a revetment, as a temporary measure while the United States Army Corps of Engineers conducts a study of the area.

The lawmaker recommended that the Land Authority reallocate funds for the acquisition of necessary materials, in coordination with the Loíza Mayor Julia Nazario Fuentes and other officials. It is estimated that the work will directly benefit the 47 residents of the community.

Senate Vice President Marissa “Marissita” Jiménez Santoni backed the measure, emphasizing the need for an immediate solution while federal authorities complete their assessments. Sen Héctor Joaquin Sánchez also participated in the discussions about the joint effort to protect Parcelas Suárez residents and the nearby coastline.