As Ocean County gears up for a major beach replenishment project, real estate professionals in the area should take note of how this initiative could impact local property values, community development, and market trends. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening, why it matters, and how you can leverage this information for your clients and business.
The Project Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is set to begin pre-construction surveys for the much-anticipated northern Ocean County beach replenishment project in mid-January 2025. The dredging work, expected to start offshore on February 5, will bring 2.1 million cubic yards of sand to beaches from the Manasquan to Barnegat inlets. This $73.5-million initiative is being undertaken by Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co., a leading name in coastal restoration.
Key communities involved include Seaside Heights, Seaside Park, Toms River (Ortley Beach), Lavallette, Bay Head, Point Pleasant Beach, Mantoloking, and Brick. The project is projected to take six to seven months, with construction moving from north to south.
Tentative Construction Timeline
Understanding the schedule is crucial for advising clients on potential disruptions or benefits:
Seaside Heights and Seaside Park: 241,000 cubic yards of sand (January–February)
Toms River (Ortley Beach): 426,000 cubic yards (February–March)
Lavallette: 184,000 cubic yards (March)
Bay Head and Point Pleasant Beach: 495,000 cubic yards (Spring)
Mantoloking: 392,000 cubic yards (Spring)
Brick: 227,000 cubic yards (Early Summer)
This replenishment effort follows a previous project completed five years ago, which restored beaches and dunes after Superstorm Sandy. The Army Corps’ commitment to renourishment over the next 50 years underscores the long-term investment in the area’s coastal resilience.
Why This Matters to Real Estate Professionals
Property Values
Beach replenishment projects often have a positive impact on property values, as they enhance coastal appeal and mitigate erosion risks. Highlighting this effort to potential buyers can add to the perceived value of properties in these areas.
Community Development
Replenished beaches attract tourism, boost local economies, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. These improvements can be a selling point for agents working with families or investors.
Market Trends
Temporary disruptions from construction may create short-term challenges, but they offer long-term benefits. Educate your clients about the timeline and manage expectations regarding noise, access, and activity during the replenishment period.
Risk Mitigation
Properties along the coastline are increasingly vulnerable to storms and erosion. The replenishment project provides an added layer of protection, which can appeal to buyers seeking coastal homes with reduced risk.
Leveraging This Information
As a real estate professional, here are a few ways to use this project to your advantage:
Educate Your Clients: Include updates on the project in newsletters or blogs. Inform prospective buyers about how this enhances the area’s resilience and value.
Timing Listings Strategically: Consider the project schedule when listing homes. For example, you might highlight completed sections of the project to showcase the upgraded beaches.
Partner with Local Businesses: Collaborate with local businesses to promote the benefits of a revitalized coastline, creating a unified message about the community’s growth.A
Brighter Future for Ocean County Beaches
The ongoing commitment to beach replenishment in Ocean County reflects a proactive approach to protecting the area’s natural beauty and bolstering its coastal economy. For real estate professionals, this is more than just a construction project—it’s a unique opportunity to showcase the strength, resilience, and desirability of the local market.
As the project unfolds, stay informed and proactive in communicating its benefits. Whether you’re helping buyers find their dream beachfront property or assisting sellers in maximizing value, the replenished beaches of Ocean County are sure to make waves in the real estate market.
If you have any questions about this information or title insurance, please contact Ralph Aponte: 732.914.1400.
Counsellors Title Agency, www.counsellorstitle.net, founded in 1996, is one of New Jersey’s most respected title agencies, serving all 21 New Jersey counties with title insurance, clearing title, escrow, tidelands searches, and closing and settlement services for commercial or industrial properties, waterfront properties and marinas, condominiums, townhouses or residential single-family homes. Counsellors Title also features its own Attorney Settlement Assistance Program™ [ASAP], which is an individual resource customized to fit the needs specifically of real estate attorneys, including, Documentation, Preparation, Disbursement of Funds, Attendance at Closing, HUD Preparation or Post-Closing Matters.
Connect with Ralph on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralphaponte/