The City of Long Beach, California, has submitted a permit application for maintenance dredging of the Alamitos Bay Entrance Channel. The project aims to enhance navigational safety, improve boater access, and support local beach nourishment efforts.
What Is the Alamitos Bay Dredging Project?
The Alamitos Bay Entrance Channel dredging project involves a one-time maintenance operation to restore safe and functional navigational depths. This initiative is critical for recreational boating and maintaining access to the channel.
Project Details and Scope
The dredging will target the entrance channel to reach a depth of -20 feet mean lower low water (MLLW), with an additional 2 feet allowance for overdredging. The total volume of material to be removed is estimated at approximately 415,000 cubic yards, comprising:
- 300,000 cubic yards of material above the design depth
- 115,000 cubic yards of allowable overdredge volume
How the Dredged Material Will Be Used
The sandy sediment excavated during the project has been deemed suitable for beach nourishment by the Dredged Material Management Team (DMMT). The material will be transported using hydraulic cutter-suction dredging equipment and pumped directly to Peninsula Beach, located west of the entrance channel’s jetty. This dual-purpose approach supports both navigational improvements and local beach preservation.
Environmental and Community Benefits
This dredging project not only ensures safe and efficient waterway access but also contributes to coastal protection by replenishing Peninsula Beach with clean, sandy sediment.
Key Deadlines for Public Comment
The public is encouraged to provide input on the proposed project. The deadline for submitting comments is January 10, 2025. Stakeholders and community members can voice their opinions to ensure the project meets local needs and environmental standards.
Why This Dredging Project Matters
Maintaining navigational safety and protecting coastal resources are vital for the Long Beach community. The Alamitos Bay dredging project represents a significant effort to achieve both goals through sustainable practices.
By restoring channel depth and utilizing dredged material for beach nourishment, this initiative highlights the balance between improving infrastructure and preserving natural habitats.
For more updates on the Alamitos Bay dredging project, stay tuned or submit your comments before the deadline!