Planning commission adds Little Wicomico dredging priority to draft comprehensive plan

The Northumberland County Planning Commission voted Aug. 28 to amend the draft 2025 Comprehensive Plan to list federal channels marked by U.S. Coast Guard aids to navigation as dredging priorities, with the Little Wicomico River given the highest priority and Cranes Creek the next priority. The change follows a public hearing in which residents and business owners urged the commission to elevate the issue so the county can pursue state and federal funding.

The action came after multiple public comments about severe shoaling and navigation problems. ‘‘Weare losing 5 to 6% of our business every month,’’ said Daniel Hickey of Reedville, who identified Smith Point Marina when describing economic harm from reduced navigability. Homeowner Sandra Maynard said the Northern Neck Planning and Development Commission(NNPDC) Phase 3 dredging study and a completed joint permit application are prerequisites for pursuing community project funding. "Itis really critical that…