Congressman Christopher H. Smith, District 4 | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman Christopher H. Smith, District 4 | Official U.S. House headshot
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has commenced dredging operations at the Manasquan Inlet to address significant sand accumulation along the jetty. The two-mile-long manmade channel, located within Point Pleasant Borough, connects the Manasquan River and Barnegat Bay and became navigable in 1926.
Crews began dredging on August 6 with a focus on removing sand from the Point Pleasant Beach side of the inlet. Representative Chris Smith (R-4th) had previously urged Lt. Col. Jeffrey Beeman, Commander, to take immediate action due to safety concerns.
"The build-up of sand on the Point Pleasant side of the inlet against the jetty has reached unprecedented proportions," Smith stated. "As you know, this is not only a grounding hazard to vessels, but the waves created inside the inlet as a result of this shoaling are enough to capsize boats that regularly traverse the channel."
Point Pleasant Beach Mayor Doug Vitale also communicated with the Corps regarding safety issues posed by dangerous shoaling.
"I am aware of the sand shoaling on the south side of the inside of the Manasquan Inlet due in large part to the southerly wind we’ve been having," Vitale said. "I trust the U.S. Coast Guard is monitoring and will ensure safety of the Inlet. I am monitoring the situation as well and understand its gravity: safety, navigability, and blockage for our fishing industry."
Smith added, "I am aware that Manasquan Inlet is categorized as a dynamic inlet with constantly shifting sands created by currents, but this inlet beach is highly dangerous to navigation during Jersey Shore's busiest boating time."
On August 6, Dredge Murden completed two dredging cycles at Manasquan Inlet. The Corps announced plans for additional dredging soon.
During ongoing operations, residents and beachgoers are advised to avoid walking or recreating on sandbars near work areas.
"It’s important to note that Manasquan Inlet is dynamic and conditions within it can rapidly change," stated a representative from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. "Significant shoaling frequently occurs within the inlet and often dissipates due to changing wind/wave conditions. Mariners should heed all warnings from U.S. Coast Guard and proceed with caution."
This article was published online on Aug. 21, 2024, as well as page one of Brick Times' print edition.
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