Bridgeport and Fairfield officials held a press conference on Earth Day to discuss a plan to preserve the sand spit along Ash Creek.

Officials say the sand spit could wash away within 15 years or less if no action is taken.

If the sand spit continues eroding, officials say it would endanger wildlife and flood homes in the Black Rock section of Bridgeport and eastern Fairfield.

Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim and Fairfield First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick say they've teamed up with the Ash Creek Conservation Association to save the sand spit. 

They say they've used American Rescue Plan funds to plant 42,000 sea grass plugs to help stabilize it.

Additional projects may include sanding and planting more sea grass plugs.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal was also in attendance.