• Coastal Communities

    With over 320 miles of shoreline that generate $3 billion in economic impact and create over 80,000 jobs, the beaches and waterways of North Carolina are critical to the state’s economy. The waterways provide economic livelihood to our fishermen, suppliers, tugboat operators, and port workers, while also providing recreational benefit to millions of tourists. Our beaches attract tourists nationwide and make North Carolina the 6th most-visited state in the nation with 43 million visitors a year that generate $1.2 billion in federal, state, and local tax receipts.

    Our coastal communities depend on quality beaches to drive their local economies. As a member of both the House Coastal Caucus and the House Oceans Caucus, I have worked with coastal communities in Brunswick, New Hanover, and Pender Counties to ensure that their beaches and waterways are properly maintained and nourished.

    In addition to beautiful beaches, Southeastern North Carolina is also home to the Port of Wilmington where billions of dollars in goods are shipped each year. In order to increase economic growth throughout our region, I have been pleased to spend the last five years working to secure funding to deepen the navigation channel of the Wilmington Port from 38 feet to 42 feet. Deepening this channel will enhance the delivery and export of international cargo and ensure timely, competitively-priced goods for our residents.

    In order to ensure continued growth and vitality in the future, we must continue to invest in port developments and facilities. With a 42-foot channel, the Port of Wilmington will continue to serve as a major East Coast gateway to the world, as well as an important component of our national defense mobilization.

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