USACE to Lead Federal Review for Alexandria Waterfront Flood Project
The Army Corps of Engineers will coordinate environmental and historic preservation reviews as the city pursues permits for new bulkheads and stormwater infrastructure.
By Tomas Gonzalez ·
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is set to act as the lead federal agency for the Waterfront Flood Mitigation Project in Alexandria. The Corps will oversee the complex regulatory process required before construction can begin on the new water infrastructure.
The project involves building a bulkhead and installing stormwater outfalls. These structures will require specific approvals from multiple local, state, and federal entities. The National Park Service must issue a Bed of River Permit to allow construction in that area. Additionally, the DC Department of the Environment will handle permits for temporary mooring piles used during the build.
The City of Alexandria serves as the applicant for these permits. Because the project touches federal lands and waters, it triggers requirements under the National Environmental Policy Act. The Corps will lead the environmental review to ensure compliance with federal standards.
Historic preservation rules also apply to the site. The project may require a process under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. This review involves the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation to assess the impact on local history.
The city plans to post updates on its website as the process moves forward. It will also send electronic notifications to the Waterfront Commission and other affiliated bodies. These groups will participate in the consulting party process and the public comment period.
No final decisions on the environmental review have been announced yet. The city will share further details as the National Park Service and other agencies release project-specific information.
Source: City of Alexandria
