Congresswoman Moore, Milwaukee Mayor Johnson join local climate leaders to discuss environmental efforts

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Congresswoman Gwen Moore and Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson joined local climate leaders on Aug. 8, to discuss environmental impacts in the Milwaukee area.

The gathering took place at the Pierhead Lighthouse along Lake Michigan. The discussion included the potential construction of a living breakwater made possible by funding from the National Coastline resilience fund. 

"The vision is to expand the outer breakwater structures which are currently made of concrete and large stones into what would look like a series of barrier islands that will meet two goals," said Aaron Zeleske, the Environmental Director in the Harbor District. "Building habitat for fish and aquatic life below the water line and habitat for migratory birds above while also shielding Jones Island from severe storms." 

Zeleske says the project, which is in the preliminary stages of engineering with work expected over the next two years, can serve as a model for how the U-S Corps of Engineers and Great Lakes cities protect ports and include biodiversity enhancements. 

This discussion comes about a year after the Inflation Reduction Act, a bill meant to curb inflation, lower drug prescription prices, and invest in domestic energy production while promoting clean energy.