Calvert Commissioners Approve Citizen-Led Shore Erosion Project In Neeld Estate

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — Calvert County leadership voted at the Aug. 4 Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting to approve an ordinance that would allow a citizen-led shore erosion project to move forward.

The Neeld Estate Citizens’ Association (NECA) petitioned the BOCC to establish a Shore Erosion Control District (SECD). The purpose of the proposed SECD is to provide a dedicated funding mechanism for the construction of a third headland breakwater to mitigate coastal erosion and protect adjacent community infrastructure.

Members of NECA presented the petition and participated in a public hearing at the July 21 BOCC meeting on this matter. After the mandatory waiting period, the BOCC opted to approve the petition and close the record on this project, giving NECA the ability to move forward with the plan as laid out.

The project is estimated to cost $791,713. It will be funded through a 20-year, zero-interest loan from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The DNR loans the money to the county, which then funds the project. In order to pay the county, NECA has proposed a $335.47 levy per associated residence per year. This process allows the county government to act as the borrower and fiscal administrator, subject to final state and county processes and approvals.

The Neeld Estate area has experienced “unprecedented” shoreline erosion due to rising bay waters and severe weather events.

“Our shoreline is increasingly susceptible to coastal hazards, including storms, flooding and sea-level rise. These hazards are contributing to a worsening erosion problem,” NECA’s website reads.

The solution is to create a living shoreline that will help protect the homes and the land beyond the shoreline. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources completed a Need and Feasibility Report, which NECA presented to the board along with its petition.

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