The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has completed dredging and placing 1.3 million cubic yards of sand on the Delaware beaches.
For context, a standard dump truck holds between 12 and 15 cubic yards, according to Army Corps of Engineers spokesman Stephen Rochette.
“These projects are important because a strong dune and beach system has proven to be effective at reducing the risk of coastal storm damages to infrastructure,” Rochette said.
That infrastructure can include homes, businesses, boardwalks, roads and even utility lines.
Fenwick Island Mayor Natalie Magdeburger pointed to the risk of destructive weather, such as the nor’easter of 1962.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers “has kept Fenwick protected from the devastation that can occur from a coastal storm, and the engineered dune system … keeps our residents, homes, businesses, streets and highway safe,” Magdeburger said.
Rehoboth Beach spokesperson Lynne Coane agreed.
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“The regular beach nourishment program ensures that Rehoboth Beach remains a viable and attractive destination,” Coane said. “Equally important, the replenishment program, and specifically the rebuilding of the dunes system, is a crucial component to managing the risk from frequent storms.”
Pending funding, Rehoboth, Dewey, Bethany and South Bethany will be replenished again in three years, Rochette said. Fenwick Island is scheduled for replenishment every four years and Lewes every six.
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At the Delaware beaches, the Army Corps of Engineers will be dredging the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal this fall and may replenish Lewes beach this fall or winter, according to Rochette. Bulkhead repairs at the Indian River Inlet are expected to begin this fall or winter.
To the north, repair work on the St. Georges Bridge is ongoing. Delaware River dredging is ongoing most of the time, Rochette said, with a dredge currently working in the Delaware Bay portion.
Shannon Marvel McNaught reports on Sussex County and beyond. Reach her at smcnaught@gannett.com or on Twitter @MarvelMcNaught
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