Cape Charles Seeks State Funding for Final Harbor Boardwalk Repairs

CAPE CHARLES, Va. — The Town of Cape Charles is preparing to seek additional state funding to complete the final phase of its Harbor Boardwalk Reconstruction project, continuing a multi-year effort to stabilize and modernize one of the town’s most heavily used waterfront assets.

Town officials plan to request a grant of up to $48,300 through the Virginia Port Authority’s Aid to Local Ports (ALP) program, which provides funding for up to 75% of eligible capital improvements. A formal request must be submitted by March 1, with funding decisions expected in May and disbursement beginning July 1.

The proposed funding would support Phase 3 of the boardwalk reconstruction—targeting the western section of the harbor behind The Shanty. The total cost of the final phase is estimated at $64,400.

The harbor boardwalk, which runs adjacent to the town’s floating docks, has been in service for approximately 15 years. A prior capital asset evaluation by engineering firm Langley & McDonald identified the structure as requiring ongoing maintenance and recommended a closer inspection of its supporting framework.

Those concerns proved well-founded.

According to town officials, portions of the boardwalk experienced unexpected structural failures, including localized collapses that required emergency repairs. Harbor staff discovered that the underlying beams and joists had deteriorated more extensively than originally anticipated.

In response, the town launched a phased reconstruction strategy, replacing compromised structural elements and upgrading the decking from traditional wood to synthetic materials designed to reduce long-term maintenance costs.

• Phase 1, completed last spring, addressed one of the most deteriorated sections near the harbor bathhouse
• Phase 2, recently completed, extended repairs from the bathhouse to the western end of the boardwalk
• Phase 3, now proposed, will complete reconstruction behind The Shanty

Officials noted that earlier phases were completed without ALP assistance due to time constraints that prevented submission of a competitive grant application.

While the town is eligible for up to 75% reimbursement, officials caution that the full request may not be awarded. The ALP program distributes approximately $1 million annually statewide, making it a competitive funding source.

However, Cape Charles’ strong track record in completing prior ALP-funded projects—including the Inner Harbor Bulkhead Rehabilitation—could improve its chances of securing a substantial award.

If approved at the maximum level, the town would be responsible for a $16,100 local match. A reduced award of 50% would increase the town’s share to $32,200. Either amount would need to be incorporated into the FY 2027 budget.

The harbor remains a cornerstone of Cape Charles’ tourism and maritime economy, supporting transient boat traffic, commercial activity, and public access to the Chesapeake Bay.

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Wayne Creed

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