Posted on April 13, 2026
The coastal town of North Wildwood, New Jersey is undertaking a major beach restoration project, installing 35-foot tall steel bulkheads to protect against ongoing beach erosion and storm damage. The bulkhead system, which involves driving interlocking sheets of metal into the sand, will create a continuous barrier from 3rd Street to the 16th Street lifeguard station.
Why it matters
North Wildwood, like many Jersey Shore towns, has struggled with significant beach erosion over the past decade, leading to infrastructure damage and concerns about public safety. This bulkhead project represents a long-term solution to fortify the coastline and prevent future flooding and storm surges from reaching the streets and buildings.
The details
Crews are using a specialized hydraulic vibrating hammer to drive the steel bulkhead sections into the sand, with each piece extending about 6 feet above the surface. Once the full bulkhead is installed, sand will be added on top to create new protective dunes. The project covers the stretch of beach between 12th Avenue and 15th Street.
- The North Wildwood Bulkhead Project began in April 2026.
- The bulkhead installation is expected to be completed by the summer of 2026.
What they’re saying
“We did too, so we stopped by the North Wildwood Bulkhead Project, happening between 12th Avenue and 15th Street, to show you exactly how it’s done.”
— Wildwood Writer, Author
What’s next
The final phase of the project will involve adding sand on top of the installed bulkhead to create new protective dunes, as well as constructing new beach access ramps.
