Town Looks to Raise Dune Road With Sandy Sand

Tons of sand dumped across the Southampton Town's portion Dune Road by Hurricane Sandy may prove useful in a long-anticipated project to raise Dune Road, which frequently floods during storms.

According to Councilwoman Christine Scalera, the town's liaison to the highway department, the highway department is exploring the idea of using the sand, to build up dune road and then pave over it.

"Dune Road is a project that the town has been trying to do for a long time," said Scalera. "This is something that may make sense and be a good thing."

However, to use the sand, Scalera said the highway department will have to obtain permits from regulatory agencies, including the Department of Environmental Conservation.

Since the storm, the town has worked to clear Dune Road near the inlet, which was coated in sand, at some points 4 to 6 feet deep. The sand lines the roadway in piles as high as 7 feet..

Related: PHOTOS: Ponquogue Bridge Open

As to costs for the project, Scalara said the town already has $1.5 million earmarked and is awaiting word regarding a matching federal grant.

Alex Gregor, the highway superintendent, did not return calls for comment.

Related Reading

• Funds Requested for Flooding on Dune Road
• Dune Road Flooded; Police Say It Will Not Reopen Anytime Soon

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