Posted on April 8, 2026
PORTLAND, Ore. – After months of pre-construction planning, last week the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Portland District, began a critical $3,021,620 repair of the Rogue River South Jetty. The project, awarded to contractor Suulutaqq Inc., will ensure the long-term reliability of the vital navigation channel at Gold Beach.
The South Jetty, a familiar landmark for the Gold Beach community, was originally completed in 1960 alongside its northern counterpart. For over 60 years, these structures have been the frontline defense against the powerful Pacific Ocean, protecting the federal channel that is the lifeblood for the local marine economy.
This project is classified as a “repair,” not full-scale rehabilitation, meaning it will restore the jetty to its designed condition.
While equipment and personnel will be mobilizing over the next few weeks, the project officially kicks off a multi-month effort scheduled to last until Fall 2026. The work will involve placing approximately 5,000 tons of new jetty stone to restore and reconstruct damaged sections of the structure. The engineering plan calls for rebuilding the jetty to a precise template to ensure the stones are well-interlocked and stable against the coast’s relentless wave action: with a 26-foot-wide crest at an elevation of 18 feet.
“Our Jetties work 24/7/365 to deliver USACE’s navigation mission; they must resist the forces of the unique Pacific Northwest wave and storm climate,” said Colter Bennett, Portland District civil engineer and geologist. “To keep nationally important waterways passable USACE must maintain these nationally important marine structures. This project addresses a relatively small but rapidly degrading reach of the south jetty.”
While the project may be considered modest in scale compared to massive jetty rehabilitations, its impact is significant for the Gold Beach community. The navigation channel supports a bustling local economy, from fishing fleets to the popular jet boat tours that draw thousands of visitors annually.
During the repair work, there will be no expected impacts to navigation or marine recreation. However, public safety is a top priority. For their safety, the public will be prohibited from accessing the South Jetty and the adjacent beach area during construction.
“Activity on the site poses a real safety risk to the public,” Bennett emphasized. “We urge everyone to respect the closures and posted signage. These measures are in place to keep everyone safe while our contractor performs this important work.”
Portland District will continue to provide updates on the project’s progress.
About USACE, Portland District: The Portland District provides vital engineering solutions in collaboration with partners to secure our Nation, energize our economy, and reduce disaster risk in a region covering most of Oregon and southwestern Washington.
