All we’ve ever asked for is that the Army Corps of Engineers take a look at the Long Beach Breakwater, to determine if something can be done to alter the structure with the goal of increasing circulation, wave energy and water quality. Today, we’re one step closer to getting our wish.

Pending approval from Congress and the President, $90,000 has been approved for the Army Corps of Engineers to review the reconnaissance study that was produced over the summer by locally-based engineering firm Moffat & Nicholl. The funding was included in the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee Conference Agreement.

What this means is that the Corps now has the resources to examine the study, to determine whether any of the proposed alterations are feasible or cost-effective. The Moffat & Nicholl study found that certain variations would likely improve water circulation and quality, and possibly the return of waves to the coast of Long Beach.

“For years our community has pondered potential changes to the Breakwater,” said Mayor Bob Foster. “While the City has conducted its own study, only the Army Corps can determine if there is federal interest in pursuing changes to the Breakwater or the East San Pedro Bay. These funds will allow the Army Corps to review the City’s study and make that determination of federal interest.”