Posted on February 9, 2026
There is currently an active dredging operation underway at the entrance of Port Everglades near Fort Lauderdale Beach. This is part of Broward County’s long-planned Sand Bypass Project, which officially began in October 2025. The project aims to address decades of beach erosion by restoring the natural flow of sand that has been disrupted by the port’s jetties.
The Sand Bypass Project involves constructing a 7.1-acre underwater sand trap just north of the Port Everglades inlet. This trap is designed to collect sand that would otherwise accumulate at the inlet, allowing it to be periodically dredged and relocated to beaches south of the port, including Dania Beach, Hollywood Beach, and Hallandale Beach. This process helps replenish eroded shorelines and reduces the need for inland sand hauling.
The project is being executed in four phases:
1. Dredging: Creating the sand trap.
2. North Jetty Enhancement: Improving the existing jetty structure.
3. Artificial Reef Mitigation: Constructing artificial reefs to offset environmental impacts.
4. Rubble Clearing: Removing debris to prepare the area for ongoing maintenance.
Great Lakes Dredge and Dock has been contracted for the dredging work, and the entire project is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
The project includes significant environmental mitigation efforts. For instance, an artificial reef is being constructed to compensate for any potential impacts on marine habitats. Additionally, the project aims to preserve habitats for endangered and threatened species, including nesting areas for sea turtles.
