Ocean County Waterways Set For $8.4M Dredging Project

Work began in July and is expected to continue around the clock through December in several Ocean County channels.

By Veronica Flesher, Patch Staff

Jul 31, 2026 3:29 PM EDT

STAFFORD, NJ — A maintenance dredging project is underway in the Beach Haven West Complex in Ocean County, where New Jersey Department of Transportation officials said several channels will be restored to their authorized depths.

According to NJDOT, the $8.4 million project covers the Harvey Cedars, Harvey Cedars 2, Margos, Beach Haven West Mill Creek, Cedar Run and Little Egg channels in Harvey Cedars, Stafford, Eagleswood and Long Beach. NJDOT said its contractor, H&L Construction LLC, began hydraulic dredging operations in July 2026. The work is expected to continue 24 hours a day, seven days a week until completion in December 2026.

NJDOT said the project will restore the channels to authorized depths ranging from 5 feet to 8 feet at mean low water. The stated goal is to ensure safe navigation and access to channels in Barnegat Bay.

All material removed from the channels will be transported by pipeline and placed into Dredged Hole 61, according to NJDOT. The department said the pipeline will be marked with buoys and lights to help boaters navigate the area safely.

Channel closures are not expected, according to NJDOT. If closures become necessary, NJDOT said they will be announced through the Local Notice to Mariners and on social media. The department also advised that State Aids to Navigation will be removed as necessary during the project.

NJDOT is advising the public to stay alert for the pipeline, buoys, dredge and other maritime construction equipment in the area. The department asked that no one approach the construction site or any other project-related equipment.

Boaters should use caution when traveling through active work zones, according to NJDOT. The department said boaters can contact the contractor for meeting and passing arrangements on Channel 63. NJDOT also said no wake speed should be observed in active work zones for the duration of the project.

Questions about the project can be directed to the NJDOT Community Relations Office at 609-963-1982 or dot-ccr.communityrelations@dot.nj.gov, according to the announcement. NJDOT said updates also are available on its X account, Facebook page and Instagram account as the work continues toward its expected December completion.