Virginia Beach Erosion Control and Hurricane Protection Project
Completed in 2002, at a cost of $143 million, the project is comprised of pump stations, a sea wall, sand dunes and widened beach berm which protects property along the Virginia Beach.
Constructed of metal sheet pile, concrete and reinforcing steel, the sea wall stretches for nearly four miles starting at Rudee Inlet to the south and continuing north to 58th Street. Where the sea wall ends, a system of strengthened sand dunes continues from 58th Street to 89th Street protecting homes and businesses.
The project has more than recouped its original costs through preventing an economically viable location from destructive storm surges during Hurricanes Isabel and Irene, tropical storms and nor’easters that have struck the area since 2002.
Recently, it is estimated the project saved the citizens of Virginia Beach $104 million in damage costs that would have occurred had the project not stood up to the wind-driven sea during Hurricane Irene in 2011.
The project also allows visitors to enjoy a boardwalk that houses an intricate pump, pipe and outflow system, which pumps rainwater away from the streets and businesses located on along the ocean. The boardwalk also provides citizens with a bike and walking paths, giving visitors ample space to ride and stroll along the beach.
Updated: 29-Nov-2011