Section 1 Short title
This Act may be cited as the “Coastal Infrastructure Improvement Act”.
Coastal Infrastructure Improvement Act
A BILL
To direct the Secretary of the Army to implement a program for the testing and implementation of stabilization and erosion control technology to prevent coastal erosion.
Sec. 2 Stabilization and Erosion Control Technology program
In general— Subject to the availability of appropriations, and for a period of 6 years beginning on the date on which funds are made available to carry out this section, the Secretary and, where appropriate, in consultation with other Federal agencies and States carrying out State management programs approved under section 306 of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1455), shall establish a program to carry out research and development activities relating to stabilization and erosion control technology, including the estimated cost and longevity of such technology, as—
biomimetic methods for the protection of estuaries, cliffs, bluffs, beaches, dunes, and shoreline stabilization;
applicable for coastal application in areas exposed to coastal floods and erosion hazards, including monitoring and maintenance; and
alternatives to hardened structures that are static, disruptive to local habitat, and contributive to erosion in adjacent areas.
Testing diversity— The Secretary shall ensure that research and development activities carried out under this section are carried out in diverse geographic locations.
Report— Not later than 60 days after the end of the period described in subsection (a), the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on the program carried out under this section, including a comprehensive evaluation of such program and recommendations for the continuation of such program.
Definitions— In this section:
Biomimetic method— The term “biomimetic method” means an engineered system that mimics natural processes, is temporary, adjustable, removable, and reusable, and includes hybrid approaches that combine natural and engineered elements to enhance ecosystem function while providing protection.
Secretary— The term “Secretary” means the Secretary of the Army, acting through the Director of the Engineer Research and Development Center.