Pursuant to House Joint Resolution No. 66, the Department of Highways and Transportation compiled a feasibility study to deliniate the costs and utility of constructing a salt water fishing pier in conjunction with the construction of the James River Bridge at Newport News, Virginia, see figure l. A brief summary of this study is outlined as follows:

Feasibility and Economics of the Proposed Pier

The Department reviewed four alternatives. Three of these alternatives consisted of some form of new construction either attaching to the new bridge or building an independent pier. These alternatives were rejected on the basis of incompatibility of the structure to the bridge design, time delays, or cost considerations. A fourth alternative, concerned with the salvage of 1500 feet of the existin?? bridge proved to be a highly acceptable alternative. The 1500 feet will be used as a fishing pier to be operated by the City of Newport News. The City Manager wrote a letter to the Department dated October 15, 1974 accepting the proposed fishing pier" See Appendix 1, page 1-2.

Estimated savings to the Department by not demolishing the proposed 1500 feet of the existing trestle is approximately $225,000. Additional savings would accrue to the City from the standpoint of not having to repair or replace Red's Pier, an existing salt water fishing pier in Huntington Park. The City has indicated that this pier will be removed after accepting the proposed pier.

Compatibility of the Proposed Pier with Community Functions

The proposed pier will not compete with or affect existing pier operations. All State Agencies responding to inquiries from the Department were favorable to the concept of a portion of the bridge being retained as a fishing pier. The Corps of Engineers has issued a permit to the City of Newport News for operation of the pier.

An assessment of fish resources in the James at Newport News indicates that most salt water sport finfish will be available at some time during the year. The pier will be a significant addition to the City's Huntington Park facilities providing relaxation for family groups as well as the casual and the round-the-clock fisherman, see figures 2, 3, 4, and 5.