Ocean City Emergency Beach Repairs After 2025 Storm Erosion

Ocean City officials are moving quickly to address significant beach erosion caused by a series of late-season coastal storms, with the goal of stabilizing the shoreline ahead of the 2026 summer season. While erosion is not uncommon during winter months, the scope of sand loss this year prompted local leaders to pursue emergency measures rather than wait for the next scheduled federal replenishment cycle.

At a December 18 Ocean City Council meeting, Mayor Jay Gillian confirmed the city is coordinating with federal and state partners to secure funding and approvals for emergency beach repairs. The focus is on protecting dunes, restoring beach berms, and ensuring public safety along Ocean City’s eight miles of coastline.

What Caused the Recent Erosion in Ocean City?

According to city officials, a series of strong fall storms combined with higher-than-average tides accelerated sand loss along several stretches of the beach. While some areas fared better than others, certain sections experienced enough erosion to raise concerns about dune stability and storm protection.

Mayor Gillian emphasized that the erosion is uneven, noting that many parts of Ocean City’s beaches remain in solid condition. However, areas that were already vulnerable saw additional stress, prompting the city to seek short-term intervention while planning for long-term restoration.

Federal and State Coordination Underway

Ocean City is working closely with U.S. Representative Jeff Van Drew to pursue federal disaster funding. Van Drew has urged New Jersey leadership, including Governor Phil Murphy and Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill, to issue a formal state of emergency for eroded Jersey Shore beaches. That declaration is a key requirement to unlock certain federal disaster relief funds.

If approved, the funding would allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to carry out emergency dune stabilization and beach berm restoration. Officials indicated that a federal disaster account from 2025 could potentially be used, but only if the state acts first.

Interim Measures Being Considered

While awaiting potential federal action, Ocean City is exploring interim solutions to reduce risk through the winter and early spring months. These options include:

• Trucking sand into the most heavily eroded areas

• Redistributing sand from wider north-end beaches

• Targeted dune reinforcement in high-risk locations

City leaders stressed these measures would not replace a full replenishment project but could help bridge the gap until larger-scale work begins.

Confidence in Summer 2026 Readiness

Despite the challenges, Ocean City officials remain confident that all beaches will be restored in time for the 2026 summer season. The city has extensive experience coordinating with the Army Corps on replenishment projects and emphasized that the current situation, while serious, is manageable with timely action.

Public messaging from City Hall has focused on reassurance: erosion is being addressed early, plans are already in motion, and Ocean City’s beaches remain a top priority for both safety and tourism.

Why This Matters for Ocean City Property Owners

Beach conditions are closely tied to storm protection, insurance considerations, and long-term shoreline stability. While this situation is being handled at the municipal and federal level, it highlights how proactive coastal management plays a role in preserving both quality of life and long-term property resilience on the barrier island.

As a local agent, I’ve seen how quickly conditions can change after major storm seasons, especially in oceanfront and near-beach neighborhoods. Early intervention like this helps reduce uncertainty for homeowners and second-home owners alike.

Common Questions Residents Are Asking

Will beach access be restricted during repairs?
Any temporary restrictions would be limited to specific work zones and communicated in advance by the city.

Is this a full beach replenishment project?
No. These are emergency and interim measures designed to stabilize conditions until a larger federal project is approved.

Are all Ocean City beaches affected?
No. Officials noted that much of the shoreline remains in good shape, with erosion concentrated in specific areas.

Sources: Ocean City Council; Ocean City Sentinel