Delaware Coast Protection, Sand Bypass Plant, Indian River Inlet

USACE Philadelphia District
Published Feb. 7, 2024
The Indian River Inlet Sand Bypass Plant provides for the pumping of approximately 100,00 cubic yards of sand annually to nourish the beach on the north side of the inlet jetty.

The Indian River Inlet Sand Bypass Plant provides for the pumping of approximately 100,00 cubic yards of sand annually to nourish the beach on the north side of the inlet jetty.

The Sand Bypass Plant, Indian River Inlet project  involves the pumping of approximately 100,000 cubic yards of sand annually to nourish approximately 3,500 feet of feeder beach on the north side of the Indian River Inlet

The Sand Bypass Plant, Indian River Inlet project involves the pumping of approximately 100,000 cubic yards of sand annually to nourish approximately 3,500 feet of feeder beach on the north side of the Indian River Inlet

CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS: DE-AL

APPROPRIATION / PHASE: Construction, General / Periodic Nourishment

BUSINESS PROGRAM: Flood and Coastal Storm Damage Reduction

AUTHORITY: Flood Control Act of 1968 and the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 (P.L. 99‑662).

LOCATION: The project is located in Sussex County, Delaware, on the Atlantic Ocean at Indian River Inlet.

DESCRIPTION: This project is authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1968 and the Water Resources Development Act of 1986 (P.L. 99-662).  The plan of improvement consists of constructing a sand bypassing plant and operation of said plant for periodic nourishment of a feeder beach (approximately 100,000 cubic yards of sand, annually) to nourish approximately 3,500 feet of feeder beach on the north side of the inlet and protect the Delaware Route 1 highway.  

PROJECT GOALS: The purpose of this project provides for construction of a sand bypassing beach plant, and operation of the plant for periodic nourishment of a feeder beach. 

COMMENTS: The sand bypass plant has recently had the crane and engine overhauled. Currently the plant is being converted to electric. Expected to resume in operations by end of 2024.

NON-FEDERAL SPONSOR: Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

DATE OF PROJECT PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT: 26 Oct 1988

PROJECT MANAGER: Peter Gori