Delaware combatting coastal erosion as $25M Indian River Inlet dredging project advances

“This project reflects a great team effort, from the time we began hauling sand by truck in the summer to now maintaining efficient round-the-clock operations,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin said in a news release. “We remain committed to getting the work done while continuing to keep the public informed about the project.”

The current DNREC-led phase of the project includes 24/7 dredging and sand placement to rebuild the north side beach and dune. This effort will be followed by a second phase in 2025, led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, to ensure long-term, coastal resilience.

Together, these measures are designed to protect state Rt. 1, which has been repeatedly threatened by storm-related flooding and erosion, including damage from Hurricane Ernesto earlier this year.

The dredging project also includes the restoration of the area’s natural sand bypass system, which moved sediment to nourish the north side beach, addressing years of sand deficits that have left the inlet particularly vulnerable to storm damage.

As the dredging and nourishment project continues, the north side beach at Delaware Seashore State Park remainsclosed to ensure public safety.

Surfers and beachgoers are encouraged to check for DNREC updates online.