Some Work Will Continue on Southend Beach Replenishment Project While Dredge is Repaired

Construction of dune crossovers and dune fence installation as part of the southend beach replenishment project will continue while the Liberty Island hopper dredge undergoes repair work, Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian said in his weekly address posted on the city’s website over the weekend.

“The construction area will be tightened up and cleared of as much equipment as possible,” Gillian said. “We plan to have as much beach open as possible without causing additional future delays to the project.”

The dredge is currently in Norfolk, Virginia for engine replacement. The Army Corps of Engineers, which is overseeing the project, estimates that the Liberty Island may be out of service for at least six weeks.

As a result, the estimated completion date for the southend beach replenishment project is now early September.

It had been on target to be completed by July 15.

The dredge also underwent repairs about a month ago.

Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company of Oak Brook, Illinois, is handling the project for $57.6 million. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is overseeing the project.