McKee declares disaster emergency for damage at Newport Cliff Walk

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Governor Dan McKee announced a Declaration of Disaster Emergency Tuesday to help address the significant damage done to the Newport Cliff Walk last year.

“Newport’s Cliff Walk is one of Rhode Island’s top attractions, drawing over a million visitors per year. The collapse and the partial closure could cause significant harm to Newport tourism, a top driver of the local economy,” said Governor McKee.

The partial collapse of the cliff walk, caused by sea erosion and other inclement weather conditions, closed a portion of the path indefinitely.

“The impacted area is now closed because it is at risk of further erosion and collapse,” McKee continued. “[It] poses a threat to public safety.”

The state disaster declaration means the Rhode Island Department of Transportation can now apply for federal relief to help make key repairs needed for the historic walking path.

Earlier this year, Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse submitted a $5 million request for engineering design and planning services for repairs at the Cliff Walk.

Officials estimate the Cliff Walk repairs could cost up to $13.75 million.