January 5, 2025

Hilton Head Island Announces $16.5 Million Beach Restoration Project

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News Summary

Hilton Head Island is set to begin a major beach renourishment project in summer 2025, aimed at combating erosion and preserving its shorelines. The $16.5 million initiative will see the addition of two million cubic yards of sand in multiple locations, executed in three phases to minimize visitor impact. The project is essential for protecting coastal habitats and enhancing beach safety, guided by extensive data and community funding.

Hilton Head Island Prepares for $16.5 Million Beach Restoration Project Set for Summer 2025

In an ambitious move to tackle coastal erosion and maintain the integrity of its beautiful shorelines, Hilton Head Island is gearing up for a significant beach renourishment project that is set to kick off in the summer of 2025. This initiative marks the fourth major restoration effort on the island since the inaugural project took place 34 years ago.

Funding and Engineering Expertise

Sponsored and funded by the Town of Hilton Head Island, the project is backed by an estimated budget of $16.5 million. Engineering services for this massive undertaking will be provided by Olsen Associates, a team with a solid track record, having executed the first restoration back in 1990.

Major Sand Addition to Battle Erosion

The beach renourishment will see the addition of approximately 2 million cubic yards of sand sourced from offshore locations, designed specifically to combat the relentless forces of nature. The project will target five distinct locations across the island, which are:

South Beach & South Island: 750,000 cubic yards
Central Island: 700,000 cubic yards along 28,860 feet of shoreline
The Heel: 500,000 cubic yards at the northeastern point
Fish Haul Creek: 50,000 cubic yards, located along the Port Royal Sound shoreline
Pine Island: 180,000 cubic yards, accompanied by the construction of six rock breakwaters

A Phased Approach to Restoration

This extensive restoration project will be executed in three phases:

Phase 1: From June 2025 to October 2025, the focus will be on The Heel, Fish Haul Creek, Port Royal Plantation, and Pine Island.
Phase 2: Scheduled from September 2025 to May 2026, this phase will include Central Island, South Island, and South Beach.
Phase 3: Timing yet to be determined, will concentrate on various structures on Pine Island.

Preparation for this large-scale endeavor is set to commence in the spring of 2025, although the timelines could be adjusted based on various factors. Notably, the beaches along the central and southern shorelines will remain undisturbed until fall 2025.

Visitor Impact and Wildlife Consideration

Beachgoers can breathe a sigh of relief, as only 1,000 feet of beach access will be restricted each day during the construction process. This equates to approximately 2% of the total beach area being unavailable on a daily basis, ensuring that the impact on visitors is minimal.

The construction is expected to last around six months and is planned to operate around the clock. The primary aim of the beach renourishment is to counter natural erosion, while also ensuring the safety and health of the shorelines.

Enhancing Coastal Habitats

In addition to counteracting erosion, the project will improve habitats for a variety of endangered species, including sea turtles and shorebirds. By utilizing a sand-water slurry that will be meticulously spread across the designated beaches, the initiative aims to enhance these vital ecosystems while also providing storm protection for coastal properties.

Data-Driven Decision Making

This beach renourishment project is guided by historical data and surveys, ensuring that the placement of sand is strategic and based on observed erosion levels and the success of past restoration efforts. Hilton Head Island’s proactive approach to beach management is backed through funding derived from a 2% accommodation tax levied on short-term rentals.

As Hilton Head prepares for this extensive restoration project, the community stands to benefit greatly from enhanced shoreline protection, improved habitats, and a beach experience that has been safeguarded against the elements for years to come.