Ocean City’s South End Eroded Beaches Set to Be Rebuilt

Even before Superstorm Sandy hit in 2012, beaches on the south end of Ocean City were becoming eroded and many would disappear completely during high tides. When Sandy hit, the beaches became eroded beyond repair. In October, City Council unanimously approved a resolution to to bring new sand onto beaches between 34th and 59th Streets in Ocean City. The $57.6 million federal project will begin in May.

Beach replenishment will consist of the laying of a pipeline, as well as closing a couple blocks of beach at a time while crews work on each individual area, starting at 34^th Street and making their way down to 59^th Street. Staging work for beach replenishment in Strathmere and Sea Isle City will begin in early April.

“We will start meeting now with key stakeholders so that we can communicate the project proactively, and minimize any possible inconveniences for our residents and guests during the summer season,” said Mayor Jay Gillian. “We are grateful that the project is moving forward. It will serve to protect billions of dollars of public and private property in the years ahead. Ocean City looks forward to working with the Army Corps of Engineers and the N.J. DEP on a successful project.”

Work will likely continue into a portion of the summer rental season due to the schedule; a similar project that started in February on the north end of Ocean City last year finished in early June. The Ocean City Board of Realtors are unable to gauge the potential impact on the heart of tourist season, as it’s difficult to tell how quick the work will proceed.

“At the end of the day, it’s certainly not our preference to inconvenience our guests in any way,” Council President Tony Wilson said of the May start. “Sooner is always better.”

However, Wilson said the long-term benefits to both property owners and visitors shouldn’t be forgotten.

Southern Ocean City will be part of a continued three-year renourishment cycle set to continue for 50 years, which will spend approximately $309.4 million throughout the project.