Funding secured for Presque Isle Beach nourishment with construction already underway

A total of $3 million has been secured for fall 2026 and spring 2027 beach nourishment and sand stockpiling at Presque Isle State Park in Erie, Pa. The volume of sand required was determined during the Buffalo District's spring beach inspection in April 2026, targeting zones most vulnerable to erosion to ensure shoreline stability. Under the contract's initial task order, approximately 30,000 cubic yards of sand will be placed in targeted areas at Beaches 5, 6, 7 and 10, as well as Mill Road. Work began Sept. 14 and is scheduled to conclude for the fall by November 2026. Replenishment of the park’s sand stockpile is planned to take place during the winter to prepare for continued nourishment in 2027.

The multiyear SATOC structure eliminates annual contracting paperwork friction, accelerating delivery for future nourishment cycles, pending funding availability. The nearly seven-mile-long, 3,200-acre Presque Isle Peninsula forms a natural breakwater protecting the shipping channel at Erie Harbor, a critical regional economic engine. In 2023, Erie's commercial harbor handled 977,000 tons of cargo—primarily limestone (64%), sand and gravel (23%), and road salt (6%)—supporting nearly $27 million in business revenue, over $6.6 million in labor income, and 101 transportation sector jobs. Photos, B-roll and video are available at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/buffalousace/albums/72177720302653759/ The Buffalo District delivers world-class engineering solutions to the Great Lakes Region, the Army