A stabilization project for the Morris Island Lighthouse should be endorsed by the state Budget and Control Board on Tuesday so the long-awaited work can proceed without further delay. There is no justification for the project to be sidetracked at this late date.

Last month, the vote was put off at the request of Gov. Mark Sanford, who said he wanted the state to define its commitment to the project. While there is substantial restoration to be done, the most important part of the project is the initial phase to stabilize its base, which is threatened by shipworms, storms and erosion.

Four years ago, the Legislature approved $500,000 for the stabilization project, and that contract is now before the Budget and Control Board.

The governor has told us he doesn't object to the legislative grant, and his cautionary remarks shouldn't be considered opposition to a contingency clause that could require more state support if there are cost overruns. If that's the case, there shouldn't be any impediments to approving a contract that is nothing short of essential for retaining the 127-year-old landmark.

The governor is correct in his assertion that the state's involvement with the lighthouse project was undertaken to provide for federal funding that otherwise would not have been available. State ownership has been essential to gaining federal preservation grants that are providing two-thirds of funding for the project. Most of the remainder will come from private contributions raised by Save the Light Inc., a citizens group that years ago took the lead in the project.

The Budget and Control Board's involvement is necessary to allow the stabilization contract to go forward with assurances that the state would assume responsibility for overruns, if necessary. Without board action, the work can't begin and the lighthouse will remain at risk. Indeed, the latest delay pushed back the project at least another month.

The Budget and Control Board shouldn't jeopardize the hard work that has gone into preserving this defining coastal landmark.

The stabilization project will provide time for planning of subsequent restoration phases and their funding. Without the board's approval of the initial stabilization phase, the lighthouse eventually will fall into the sea.