Introduction
The North Myrtle Beach renourishment effort is officially underway, marking a significant step in strengthening the coastline along the North Strand. Crews from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and the project contractor have now begun initial field activity, setting the stage for several weeks of coastal restoration.
Equipment Arrival and Offshore Mobilization
According to city officials, offshore equipment began arriving on November 15, signaling the start of on-water mobilization. This phase includes preparing vessels, staging pipelines, and positioning support assets needed for upcoming sand pumping operations. Additional mobilization tasks will continue through November and December as the full project footprint is established.
Dredge Set-Up and Project Timeline
Dredge installation is scheduled to begin on December 11. Once operational, the team will begin sand pumping at the north end of the project area and progress southward over an estimated 59 days. This schedule covers the critical December–January window, allowing work to proceed efficiently while maintaining safe offshore conditions.
Project Scale and Investment
The North Myrtle Beach renourishment initiative is part of a larger shoreline improvement program valued at $72 million. The plan calls for the placement of two million cubic yards of material across 26 miles of coastline, making it one of the Grand Strand’s major beach recovery efforts this season. The project is fully funded by USACE, reinforcing the federal commitment to long-term coastal protection.
Purpose and Expected Outcomes
This renourishment will help rebuild dune buffers, reduce storm-related impacts, and protect vital infrastructure behind the beach. By reinforcing the shoreline, the work aims to improve safety, sustain tourism, and enhance overall resilience for communities across the Grand Strand. The combination of strategic sand pumping and dune restoration will play a significant role in preparing the coastline for future weather events.
Conclusion
With mobilization now underway, the North Myrtle Beach renourishment project is entering its most active stage. As dredging, sand placement, and dune shaping continue through early 2026, residents and visitors will begin to see visible progress along the shoreline, marking another important chapter in the region’s ongoing coastal management strategy.