Councillor McKenna, State Rep. Turco and Democratic Whip Clark’s representatives work together to protect Revere’s coastal communities

By Tara Vocino

Representatives from Democratic Whip Katherine Clark’s office, Ward 1 City Councillor/City Council President Pro Tempore Joanne McKenna and State Rep. Jeffrey Turco met last Thursday morning on Leverett Avenue to discuss how to handle the crumbling seawall. Representative Turco and Councillor McKenna held a meeting on Short Beach to discuss the damaged seawall alongside members from Congresswoman Clark’s office. The Beachmont community has raised concerns over the long-standing issue surrounding the solidity of the seawall. The structural integrity of the wall has weakened over the years, and after many storms, there is apparent maintenance that needs to be done. The goal is to be proactive and prepared; they must not wait for an emergency to tell them that something has to be done. The seawall needs to be done out of necessity to protect and preserve Revere neighborhoods.

“This work for the seawall has been a long time coming, and it’s a very important issue of safety for the people of Beachmont,” said McKenna.

The seawall runs parallel to the shoreline as it transitions from the beach to the road. The purpose is to protect the inland communities from wave damage and prevent coastal erosion. Communities are being impacted throughout the state of Massachusetts by rising sea levels. The coastal communities are seeing the impact at a much faster rate due to the close proximity to the ocean. The seawall is a crucial layer of protection, as it breaks the waves and slows them down before they reach the road and homes on the other side. The erosion that takes place over time can result in the loss or displacement of land, if there is not a proper barrier dividing land and sea.

“I want to thank Congresswoman Clark for her leadership on climate related issues,” Turco said. “Her hands-on approach to her district is second to none.”

Turco said McKenna is a tenacious advocate for Ward 1. Her ability to bring local, state, and federal partners to the table makes it possible to get things done,” Turco said. “I am honored to work with her and look forward to getting us on track to fix this life saving seawall.”

For information, email Je***********@*****se.gov or call 617-722-2080, ext. 4.