Senator Jon Ossoff recently introduced a bill to protect Tybee Island from the effects of growing storm surge.
The bill, titled the Tybee Island Storm Risk Management Act, seeks to ‘ensure Tybee Island has the resources it needs’ to protect from sea level rise, storm surge, coastal flooding, and “other impacts of climate change.” The hope is to guarantee coastal storm risk management projects on Tybee Island for at least 50 years.
Ossoff said the legislation will “help protect the beautiful Tybee Island as part of my ongoing effort to support, protect, and invest in coastal Georgia.”
The measure has the support of Senator Raphael Warnock as well. In a statement, Warnock said that protection of the beach is crucial for the safety of the economy as in addition to the economy.
“For nearly 50 years, the federal government and the City of Tybee Island have been partnering on the Tybee Island Beach Erosion Control Project to make sure residents and visitors are able to enjoy the island for years to come,” Warnock said. “I’m proud to join Senator Ossoff to ensure the long-term protection of one of Georgia’s most cherished natural treasures.”
Tybee Island has been one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the state of Georgia since the 1870s and has experienced 10 inches of sea level rise since 1935.
The text of the Tybee Island Storm Risk Management Act is available online.
