Butch Blazer, USDA Deputy Undersecretary (DUS)s and Mayor Anthony Copeland visit Jeorse Park Beach On Monday, September 22, 2014 Butch Blazer, USDA Deputy Undersecretary had an opportunity to meet with Mayor Copeland and State Agencies to discuss our plans for Jeorse Beach. Blazer was quite eager to meet with Mayor Copeland to discuss initiatives that will eradicate the chloroform problem that is currently threatening the lakefront. “Part of the answer is being proactive,” Blazer stated. Gene Fleming, Chief of Environmental Formulation and Analysis Section discussed a plan of action to reduce the chloroform by extending the beach outward and placing submerged structures underwater. “This will break waves and change the flow of the water,” Fleming said. In 2013 Mayor Anthony Copeland was faced with this huge problem at Jeorse Beach. The beach was called one of the most polluted beaches in the country, so the Mayor decided to take action. In April 2013 Mayor Copeland sent a letter requesting assistance from the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Natural Resources to help address this major concern and they have answered the call. A study of the beach was conducted in December of 2013 and the Federal Government found it as an area of concern and conducted a feasibility study. The Goal of this project is to restore over 14 acres of beach and foredune habitat along 4500 ft. of submerged habitat to a more natural state while enhancing fish foraging and spawning opportunities for migratory birds and nearshore fishes. The feasibility phase showcases necessary data that provides accurate measurements of ecological quality and quantity. The total investment for the habitat restoration costs will be between 5 and 7 million dollars. Part of the beach restoration will place sand with a retaining structure to create a perched beach. The plan will remove invasive species and place native plants adjacent to the casino breakwater creating a habitat for migratory birds. One of the options may be to change the shape of the breakwater itself to modify current water patterns. “At first we were paralyzed in solving these issues so we began to reach out for help. Now that help has arrived, we can focus on finding the right solution that will benefit the environment and residents in the long run. I was not going to let this problem persist under my watch as Mayor,” said Mayor Copeland. This project along with the first phase of our lakefront redevelopment will enable us get more use out of our beachfront. Some of the additions will include a mural, splash pad, picnic area for recreational and water play. The mural will feature architectural elements that showcase occupational life in East Chicago. These new elements will also enhance the waterfront with its standard design and development by bringing attention back to the lakefront. So what does this mean for all of us residents? This aggressive plan for Jeorse Park would revitalize the community with the intent on boosting economic growth and development. The reduction of E. coli (Escherichia coli) bacteria along our beach will mean less beach closures, better water quality, migratory birds, better fishing opportunities and a better quality of life for East Chicago. The City of East Chicago would like to thank all of the Federal and State Agencies involved for helping us restore our lakefront.
Posted on: Wed, 24 Sep 2014 20:57:44 +0000
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