Emergency work has begun to repair a failing sea wall at the southeastern end of Southeast Wavecrest Way in Boca Raton’s Por La Mar neighborhood south of East Palmetto Park Road.
The work will also include stormwater infrastructure improvements, including a new pumping system to assist with drainage during high tides.
The projects, recently approved by the City Council, will cost a total of $3.7 million. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has provided a $350,000 grant. The work will be done by Cone and Graham Inc.
The city expedited the project because the sea wall was at risk of collapsing, with its problems exacerbated by repeated king tides.
The Riviera Civic Association, which includes Por La Mar, cheered the city’s action. President Katie Barr MacDougall credited City Manager Mark Sohaney and Public Works and Engineering Director Zachary Bihr for being very responsive to their concerns.
“We are very happy with the follow-through on their part,” she said.
The association has another reason for celebration. Sidewalks on East Palmetto Park Road are being improved and a pedestrian crosswalk installed.
For years, the association has pressed for extensive improvements along the section of the road between the Intracoastal Waterway and State Road A1A.
Residents aren’t getting everything they wanted, but are pleased with the work that is being done, MacDougall said.
— Mary Hladky
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