Beach Restoration Project: In Gulf Shores, Alabama – Gulf Shores residents can rejoice as the beach restoration project is officially underway. This is a significant development eagerly anticipated by the community.
Crews are embarking on a continuous 24/7 effort, utilizing two dredging vessels to address the aftermath of Hurricane Nate and Hurricane Sally.
“We’ve got two hoppers dredges out that go out and get the sand on the bottom of the Gulf, and they’ll hook these pipes behind, and they actually pump the sand out onto the beaches, so it’s a very unique process,” explained Chief Building Official Brandan Franklin.
Despite being in the early stages, the beach is starting to regain its charm.
“There was nowhere for our tourists to go and lay out. There were safety concerns for our lifeguards to be able to get back and forth, our police department to be able to traverse back and forth for any kind of emergency measures,” Franklin highlighted.
The dredging and restoration efforts are slated to conclude in Gulf Shores by January 1. However, residents are urged to exercise patience during the ongoing work.
“Depending on the amount of sand going in certain areas, it may move faster, may move slower. So, there’s no way I can guarantee a specific date when they’ll be in different areas,” cautioned Franklin.
The city is actively working on a website to keep residents informed about the progress. Additionally, restoration work is also planned for the Gulf State Park and Orange Beach areas.
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Our Reader’s Queries
How does beach restoration work?
Beach nourishment involves adding sediment onto or near a shrinking beach. This “soft structural” approach lets sand move with waves and currents. Dune restoration often accompanies beach nourishment projects.
Who pays for beach restoration in Florida?
Progress in Restoring Beaches
The funding for beach restoration is shared between local governments and the federal government for approved projects. Each level of government covers about one-third of the total program cost.
How do you restore a beach?
Beach restoration usually involves bringing in sand from inland or neighboring beach areas, or using hydraulic methods to pump sand from offshore onto the beach.
What are the four main interests that beach replenishment projects mean to protect?
Utilized for multiple purposes, such as: (i) shielding buildings and infrastructure from wave impact; (ii) enhancing beaches for leisure activities; (iii) establishing new natural habitats; and (iv) preserving sediment levels amidst rising sea levels.