BALTIMORE, MD (September 30, 2003) – Marylanders will be able to put their coastal structures damaged by Hurricane Isabel back together again without reapplying for permits from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). In conjunction with the Maryland Board of Public Works, MDE has implemented emergency authorizations for the repair and replacement of structures located in the Chesapeake Bay, the tidal portion of the bay’s tributaries, and Maryland’s coastal bays.

The authorizations permit the repair and replacement of piers, docks, wharfs, bulkheads, revetments, jetties, groins, breakwaters, boat ramps, and storm drain outfalls that were functional prior to the storm’s onset Sept. 17. Repair and replacement activities must be completed by September 20, 2004.

“This action grants some relief to those severely impacted by Isabel and allows property owners to repair damages in tidal waters without obtaining additional state authorizations,” MDE Acting Secretary Kendl P. Philbrick.

Within 30 days of completion of the project, a single page project registration form must be submitted to the department. Complete authorization details are located on MDE’s homepage at: mde.maryland.gov under the “Alerts & Advisories” link and the Maryland Board of Public Works website at: www.bpw.state.md.us.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has also authorized the repair and replacement of structures damaged by Hurricane Isabel provided that they were serviceable prior to the hurricane. The Corps’ authorization is posted on their website at: www.nab.usace.army.mil

For additional information, please contact MDE toll free in Maryland at (800) 876-0200 or (410) 537-3835.

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