Posted on November 7, 2025
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) New York District has begun dredging operations at Lake Montauk Harbor in East Hampton, N.Y., with work expected to continue through January 2026.
The federally maintained navigation channel is being dredged to restore safe passage for commercial fishing vessels, while sand from the project will be used to rebuild eroded beaches west of the harbor’s western jetty.
“Equipment and the dredge have arrived, and work will begin soon to restore safe navigation in the harbor and maintain access for Montauk’s fishing fleet,” the Town of East Hampton said in a social media post.
USACE awarded the construction contract to H&L Contracting LLC on September 18, 2025. Work includes deepening the channel from its previous depth of -12’ to -17’ MLLW. USACE said dredged sand will be placed on the shoreline directly west of the inlet jetty, while excavated rock will be transported for disposal at a New York State offshore reef. Once completed, the deeper channel will improve navigation and ensure continued access for commercial, recreational, and Coast Guard vessels, USACE said.
The East End Beacon reported “The project, slated to cost upwards of $12 million, will dredge the inlet to a depth of 17 feet, ensuring access to the harbor for the largest commercial fishing fleet in New York State.”
A discharge pipeline will carry dredged material to the beach disposal area. Submerged sections will be marked with red and green navigation aids and spar buoys equipped with yellow flashing lights. The U.S. Coast Guard has advised mariners to proceed with caution and operate at the slowest safe speed to reduce wake near dredging equipment.
The Town of East Hampton announced on social media that the project, initially facing potential delays due to higher-than-expected bids, moved forward after the town committed $1.1 million from its Host Community Agreement with South Fork Wind to close a federal funding gap.
Work is scheduled for completion by January 31, 2026
