Strathmere Faces Erosion Challenges, Township Evaluates Solutions

PETERSBURG — The Township Committee is working to address severe beach erosion at the northern end of Strathmere, where beach entrances are expected to remain closed again this summer. On March 10, officials reported that the township met with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Division of Coastal Engineering to discuss potential solutions to the significant sand loss. While short-term remedies are limited, longer-term actions could include requesting a beach replenishment from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, a process that could take two to three years. Other options, such as building a bulkhead or stone embankment, would require even more time. The township is also considering seeking funding for dredging projects to pump sand back onto the beach, though no timeline has been established. While no immediate solutions are available, the township remains committed to maintaining beach access and planning future projects to address the issue. With summer approaching, officials are also evaluating the impact on public safety and beach structures. High tide erosion has already affected walkways, and the northern end of Strathmere is expected to remain closed, similar to two years ago. Meanwhile, a living shoreline project on the bay side of the island is moving forward, with efforts to secure funding for the project, which is slated to begin in June or July.