Crews Begin Emergency Repair of Ortley Beach Oceanfront

Crews contracted last week by Toms River Township began an emergency beach repair project Wednesday, beginning in the southern portion of Ortley Beach.

The beach repairs are required following the Mothers’ Day nor’easter, which pummeled local beaches and created cliffs up to 10-feet in height at the end of numerous beach entrances. Some of the sand lost during the storm has already filled in – a commonality in late spring as tides shift – but the entrances still required repair. While the township’s dunes themselves were not breached or damaged in any significant way, more sand is also needed to shore up the security of the protective berm, officials said.

The work began Wednesday on Harding Avenue and will continue north to 4th Avenue.

The Harding Avenue entrance in Ortley Beach, under repair, June 1, 2022. (Photo: Daniel Nee)

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Beach erosion and damage in Ortley Beach following the Mothers’ Day nor’easter, May 2022. (Photo: Daniel Nee)

Beach erosion and damage in Ortley Beach following the Mothers’ Day nor’easter, May 2022. (Photo: Daniel Nee)

“Beachgoers should be mindful of walkovers that are closed off during this time and should stay away from the areas of construction,” a statement from the township said. “Work is expected during the weekdays only, and should be complete by June 24, unless weather conditions dictate a modification to the schedule.

Last week, the Toms River township council approved a $244,250 bid from Vulcan Construction Group, of Cookstown, to undertake an emergency dune repair project. The beach season opens daily with lifeguards beginning Saturday, June 18, after which beach badges are required.