Army Engineers Submit 60% Plan, Crest Reviews

WILDWOOD CREST ─ In the words of former Mayor Carl Groon, “We’ve (the borough) been waiting and waiting,” for the finalization and execution of the Army Corps of Engineers dune project.
Stretching from Hereford Inlet in North Wildwood to the Crest, the dune system is designed to protect the Wildwoods from further beach erosion. The dunes will also extend into Lower Township.
Conducted by the state Department of Environmental Protection and Army Corps, the project is pending yet continues to move forward.  
On July 25, Crest officials received electronic notification of the Army Corps’ 60-percent plan and is currently under review by the borough engineer.
According to Borough Administrator Constance Mahon, the dune will be formed by “sand-bypass,” a dredging process designed to fill in North Wildwood’s beaches that have sustained damage from past storms.
Determined as a “cheaper way” to create a dune system, the project would clear the Crest’s outfall pipes and thus aid in reducing flooding.
When asked specifics of how tall the dune would be, Mahon said the dune would measure approximately 14 feet across.
“Ancillary benefits” to the Crest would include increased safety for its beaches and would hold back storm surge.
Funding for undertaking falls under a 75/25 percent plan: 75 percent is provided through congressional funding, part of the president’s yearly budget, while the remaining 25 is covered by the state. Mahon explained that the borough would pay a percentage of the state’s costs.
Mahon explained the borough’s share as “minimal,” equaling 11 cents on a dollar.
Residents expressed concern for beach access and, according to Mahon, ramps would arch over the dune at every access point as well as Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant ramps.
Seating areas would also be added along with the proposed bike path, providing foot washing stations and bicycle racks.
According to Mahon, borough beaches continue to grow each year, presenting a unique challenge and opportunity to support a dune system.
“Without a beach,” Mahon said, “a dune can’t survive. Blowing sand anchors grasses in the dune itself, allowing the dune to take root.
Crest officials will review the proposed 60 percent plan and return it with comments and address any issues.
By installing the dune system, Army Corps is entering a 50-year commitment with island municipalities.
DEP has offered to assist the borough with its four-year replenishment plan. Expected time of construction is 2019-2020.
To contact Rachel Rogish, email rrogish@cmcherald.com.