The cost of dredging Broad Creek in Deltaville has been set at $2.75 million, according to an announcement by Middlesex County Administrator Matt Walker during the Board of Supervisors meeting on December 3. The high price has raised concerns about the sustainability of ongoing maintenance for the county’s waterways.
Long-Awaited Broad Creek Dredging Plans Move Forward
For over a year, Middlesex County has been coordinating with the Middle Peninsula Regional Planning District Commission and other stakeholders to advance the dredging project. In October 2024, the Virginia Marine Resources Commission granted approval for the necessary dredging permits.
The estimated cost, provided by Seward Marine Corporation in Norfolk, reflects the extensive work required. To fund the project, Middlesex County plans to apply for a $2.75 million grant from the Virginia Port Authority (VPA). County Administrator Matt Walker expressed confidence in the county’s chances of securing the grant.
Ongoing Maintenance Costs Pose Budgetary Concerns
The Burden of Regular Dredging
Walker highlighted a major financial challenge: maintaining waterways like Broad Creek and Jackson Creek, which require dredging approximately every 10 years. He stated that the recurring costs are “not sustainable” within the county’s current budget framework.
Currently, Middlesex County allocates $1 million annually to a dedicated dredging fund. These funds are primarily used to maintain “Corps” creeks—waterways historically maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers since the 1800s. Of the seven Corps creeks in Middlesex County, a significant portion of the budget has been directed to the two creeks in Deltaville.
What Happens If Grant Funding Falls Through?
Jamaica District Supervisor Wayne Jessie raised an important question: What will the county do if the $2.75 million VPA grant application is unsuccessful?
Walker explained that the county has $1 million available in its dredging fund and $344,000 remaining from a previous state grant that was not fully utilized during the survey and permitting phase. However, he acknowledged that the scope of the project might need to be reduced if additional funding is not secured.
“We may not be able to do everything we want to do,” Walker admitted, highlighting the potential limitations of available resources.
Ensuring Navigation and Economic Viability
The Importance of Dredging for Local Communities
The dredging of Broad Creek is critical for maintaining navigable waterways and supporting local economic activities, particularly in areas reliant on recreational boating and fishing. Middlesex County leaders are now tasked with balancing the need for this vital project against the financial constraints of the county’s budget.
By optimizing funding strategies and planning for future maintenance, Middlesex County aims to sustain its waterways while minimizing the financial burden on taxpayers.