Beach Renourishment Underway: Dredging Operations on Ocean Isle Beach East End

By BC News Staff Writer

OCEAN ISLE BEACH, NC – Southwind Construction has officially mobilized in the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW), launching a major dredging operation to fortify the East End of Ocean Isle Beach. The project, which commenced on Monday, May 4, aims to provide vital shoreline stabilization near the island’s terminal groin before the peak of the summer season.

The project is moving forward in carefully choreographed phases to maximize coastal protection:

• West of the Terminal Groin: Crews are currently depositing an estimated 35,000 cubic yards of sand material.

• Progressive Coverage: Operations began immediately adjacent to the groin and are moving westward across approximately 700 linear feet of shoreline.

• East of the Terminal Groin: Upon completion of the westward phase, an additional 25,000 cubic yards is slated for placement just east of the groin.

The Town is actively working with Southwind to secure additional material beyond the initial 25,000 cubic yards for the eastern side. This extra volume serves as a critical short-term mitigation measure required to fulfill the town’s terminal groin permit.

Public Safety and Visitor Access

To ensure the safety of residents and visitors while maintaining 24/7 operations, the Town has implemented several accommodation measures:

• Access Closures: Shallotte Blvd. Beach Access is closed for reconstruction. Please avoid the area for your safety. The project is estimated for completion prior to May 25, 2026

• Rolling Work Zones: Construction is limited to active discharge areas, typically spanning 500 to 1,000 feet.

• Rapid Reopening: These sections generally reopen to the public within 24 to 48 hours once the sand is graded and leveled.

• Sand Ramps: Temporary ramps are being built over shore pipes at public access points, allowing visitors to safely cross over to the ocean side.

• Equipment Buffer: Visitors are urged to maintain a safe distance from all moving heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, and the active discharge pipe.

• Swimming Restrictions: Swimming is strictly prohibited in the immediate vicinity of the dredging discharge area due to potential underwater hazards and murky water conditions.

Completion Timeline –  The project is governed by a firm deadline to ensure the East End is fully restored for the height of the vacation season. All dredging, sand placement, and equipment removal must be completed no later than June 15, 2026.

Questions regarding the dredging schedule or technical specifications should be directed to Justin Whiteside, Town Manager, at 910.579.2166 or via email at justin@oibgov.com.

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