Avalon Enters Final Days of Sand Back Passing Program

The Borough of Avalon said in their latest release that they are in the final days of a sand back passing project that will provide both a protective and recreational beach for Avalon’s north end in advance of hurricane and tourism season. 

Image source: Borough of Avalon

The Avalon Department of Public Works will have the project completed in advance of the Memorial Day holiday weekend, which begins on Friday, May 25th.

According to the official announcement, approximately 30,000 cubic yards of sand will be relocated on the north end beaches as a result of this emergency project.

“Back passing sand to its point of origin has proven to be an effective and fiscally responsible means to restore beaches that are damaged by storm events, especially during the off season,” said Avalon Mayor Martin Pagliughi. 

“By doing this project in house, we were able to restore beaches that were compromised earlier this year, save money, and improve the beachfront where the sand was deposited during these storm events.”

Avalon and many coastal communities were subject to four nor’easter type events in March, 2018.

North end beaches in Avalon from 9th Street south to 14th Street were eroded by persistent northeasterly winds. The natural littoral drift of the sand placed the sand in an offshore sandbar adjacent to the beaches located just south of the Fishing Pier at 32nd Street.

The Avalon Department of Public Works rented equipment needed to effectively scrape the sand bar and move the sand back to its location in the eroded area.

The Avalon Borough Council and Municipal Engineer secured the State and Federal permits needed within a month’s time and the Department of Public Works will be able to complete this emergency back passing project ahead of schedule.

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