BETHANY BEACH, DE — The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) has reported substantial advancements in the emergency dredging and beach nourishment project underway on the north side of the Indian River Inlet. Initiated in late November, the initiative aims to restore the heavily eroded beach and dunes, providing long-term protection to critical infrastructure, including State Route 1.
Since active dredging began on December 2, the contractor, DredgIt Corp., has made impressive strides. By December 22, approximately 130,737 cubic yards (CY) of sand had been successfully dredged and placed on the beach, out of a targeted 380,000 CY to be completed by late February 2025. Notably, nearly 10,000 CY of sand was deposited during the most recent 24-hour reporting period, underscoring the efficiency of round-the-clock operations.
“This project reflects a great team effort,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin. “We remain committed to getting the work done while continuing to keep the public informed about the project.”
The DNREC-led phase is expected to conclude in February. Following this, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will take over a second phase, continuing the dredging and nourishment efforts to further protect the area’s dunes, beaches, and critical transportation routes.
During the restoration work, DNREC has temporarily closed the north side beach at Delaware Seashore State Park to ensure public safety. Officials are monitoring the situation and will coordinate with contractors to reopen the area once it is deemed safe for recreational use.
The project aims to build a stronger and more resilient coastline to mitigate the impacts of future storms and erosion.
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