The $34 million Portsmouth Riverfront Project just broke ground — but not everyone’s cheering.
Local resident Herman Morgan says he’s worried the city may have knocked down more than just concrete. He believes part of an old flood wall was removed and fears it could leave homes nearby at risk if the river rises again. Morgan’s even started a petition to pause the project until the issue gets answers.
City Says: “That Wall Didn’t Count”
City Manager Sam Sutherland says folks shouldn’t worry — that wall was never part of the city’s actual flood protection system.
“It wasn’t recognized or maintained as flood control,” Sutherland explained. “Trying to certify it now would be expensive and delay the project.”
And delay is a big deal — if construction doesn’t wrap up within a year, Portsmouth could lose all $34 million in grant funding. Sutherland said the city can explore other options for added protection if needed, but the main project has to move forward.
Project Leaders Back Him Up
The team overseeing construction — the Ironton-Lawrence County Community Action Organization (ILCAO) — says they looked at possible redesigns but decided against them.
“Redesigning would push everything back,” said Jessica Keeton, ILCAO’s Assistant Director of Community Development. “We need to get started now to keep this project transformational for Portsmouth. Waiting means fewer amenities for residents.”
Old Wall Officially “Abandoned”
According to Keeton, both the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the City of Portsmouth have confirmed the torn-down wall wasn’t part of the recognized flood defense system.
“The Corps gave clear guidance — they’re only involved in the functioning flood protection system,” she said. “The old wall doesn’t qualify.”
Progress vs. Protection
City officials say they’ll keep an eye on safety concerns, but for now, the Riverfront Project is full steam ahead. As for Morgan, he’s not giving up the fight just yet — proof that even in a city on the rise, not everyone agrees on what should stay standing.
