District Spotlight
I’m glad to see Lenoir County received over $448,000 for additional powered cot systems for its EMS ambulance fleet.
Currently, they are using manual systems, which are more than 20-years old. Outdated and improper equipment is unreliable, unsafe for continued patient care, and reduces the efficiency of response times.
I was proud to write a letter of support back in May to get this done!
Congratulations Coastal Carolina Regional Airport
Congratulations to the Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern for receiving a $3.8 million grant to continue improving the airport. I’m proud to support this project and was grateful my staff was included in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the terminal expansion back in June. EWN is critical to the economic growth of our communities and connects the region to the rest of North Carolina and the United States.
I can’t wait to see what’s next to come!
Receiving Updates on the Buxton Beach Access
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Superintendent Dave Hallac gave me a comprehensive overview of the contamination and remnants associated with the Buxton Beach formerly used defense site (FUDS).
Due to military usage, coastal erosion, and overdue restorations, the Buxton Beach Access tested positive for petroleum-contaminated soils (PCS) last September.
I am thankful for the National Park Service, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Coast Guard’s work to remediate the property and allow folks to safely enjoy the area.
Visiting Crystal Coast Oysters
I enjoyed visiting Crystal Coast Oysters in Newport, NC, and touring its operation. The farmers walked me through their rigorous process of getting these oysters ready to send to market.
Aside from being a lucrative business and a great source of nutrition, oysters are also very beneficial for our ecosystems as they play an important role in nature's water filtration system.
We discussed the various regulatory issues facing the aquaculture industry and the explosion in oyster farming over the last decade. I am committed to working to ensure our coastal farmers can thrive and continue producing delicious products for Americans to enjoy.
Meeting with Carolina Classics Catfish
I had the pleasure of meeting with Carolina Classics Catfish, one of our country’s premier catfish producers, and received an exceptional tour of their facilities.
Their innovative farming techniques ensure the freshest catfish is delivered from farm to table. Carolina Classics Catfish are raised here in Eastern North Carolina.
I look forward to continuing to advocate for them to ensure they have the resources needed to continue their mission of providing top-quality fish.
Touring Barnes Farming & Farm Pak
North Carolina leads the United States as the number one sweetpotato producer in the nation. I am proud to support our farmers' efforts to maintain and enhance our industry leadership.
I enjoyed touring Barnes Farming & Farm Pak, one of our many sweetpotato farms, which also produces watermelon and tobacco. We discussed the challenge of increased H2A labor costs and the need to expand market access.
I will continue to fight for the resources our farmers need to thrive and keep our industry strong.
Viewing Updates on the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Restoration Project Site
I had the opportunity to view updates on the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Restoration Project Site.
The Outer Banks is the proud home of the tallest traditional lighthouse in the United States. With constant exposure to extreme winds, sunlight, and salty air, we must responsibly preserve our landmarks.
I’m proud to support this effort to protect Eastern North Carolina’s cherished treasures for future generations to enjoy.
Visiting a Hotspot in Ocracoke
There are currently seven vulnerable hotspots across Hatteras Island and Ocracoke. I had the opportunity to visit one of them in Ocracoke where ocean overwash threatens the road.
A short-term solution was implemented by placing sandbags to prevent overwash
I look forward to partnering with local, state and federal agencies to ensure all 7 hotspots are addressed and our communities are free of public safety hazards and operate efficiently.
Attending the Ocracoke Resilient Infrastructure Initiative Roundtable
I attended the Ocracoke Resilient Infrastructure Initiative Roundtable with state and local officials. We discussed Ocracoke’s significant transportation challenges and explored both short and long-term solutions to improve road quality across the community.
I am committed to partnering with our community’s elected officials to ensure that these solutions are effectively implemented and address the needs of our residents.
Hyde County officials, Ocracoke Community Stakeholders, US Army Corps of Engineers, NC DOT Ferry Division, Tideland EMC, NC DOT Highway Division, US National Park Service and my office participated in this discussion.
Exploring the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Cape Hatteras
I had a great time exploring the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Cape Hatteras and visiting the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, honoring the lives of those lost in shipwrecks along the coast of ENC.
I also took a look at the original light from the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse which is currently on loan from the National Park Service.
Both of these incredible museums excel in showcasing our community’s rich history.
