A new coastal barrier system called the Ike Dike could help protect Galveston and surrounding cities from serious hurricane damage.

Proposed by Dr. Bill Merrell, the Ike Dike will not only reduce the cost of storm damage, but also boost tourism along the Texas coast.



Merrell believes that what eventually gets built could be adapted as the global climate changes. Texas A&M Galveston's Center for Texas Beaches and Shores seeks a $5 million endowment to ensure they stay ahead of coastal threats.

Learn more about the Ike Dike.

Dr. Merrell is a good dude.

One has to seriously wonder about the detrimental effects this would have on the ecosystem. And during a hurricane, the storm surge has to go somewhere. Will this make the surge higher in other places?

The storm surge would dissipate to the east and west of Galveston. Imagine the damage to the ecosystem if all the petro-chemical plants along the Houston Ship Channel were inundated.

Agasaurus Tex said:

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The storm surge would dissipate to the east and west of Galveston. Imagine the damage to the ecosystem if all the petro-chemical plants along the Houston Ship Channel were inundated.

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So basically it would make the storm surge much worse in Beaumont/Port Arthur or down toward Port O'Connor. Never mind the damage to the ecosystem when the chemical plants in the Beaumont area are inundated instead. The petrochemical industry should make sure their own facilities aren't prone to catastrophic storm surge.

It certainly appears that this is nothing more than rouse to get taxpayers to protect the multi-million dollar homes in Galveston Island.

No thanks. It is no secret that Gulf Coast has had hurricanes for millions of years. If you can't afford to lose what you build, or can't afford the insurance then live somewhere else.

I support this.

Swisher rolled tight, got sprayed by Ike

Rufneck said:

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Swisher rolled tight, got sprayed by Ike

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It hit the highway...