To enhance the resilience of transportation systems against extreme weather events and sea-level rise, the Federal Highway Administration has awarded $20 million to New Hampshire for reconstructing seawalls along Route 1A. The project aims to mitigate flooding, minimize structural damage, and facilitate smoother travel. The grant covers 80% of the initial phase, encompassing three high-priority sections between North Hampton and Rye, with subsequent contracts planned for 11 additional segments.
Amidst the rising intensity of coastal storms and sea-level rise, the grant addresses the heightened vulnerability of Route 1A, particularly as an emergency evacuation route for the Seabrook nuclear power plant. Notably, this grant is part of a broader federal initiative of $830 million dispersed across 80 projects nationwide to bolster transportation resilience.
The celebratory event on Monday will feature the presence of federal, state, and local officials, including Federal Highway Administration Administrator Shailen Bhatt, New Hampshire Transportation Commissioner William J. Cass, US Representative Chris Pappas, and US senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan.
