Posted on July 1, 2026
Concord, MA — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District, announced the start of construction for the long-awaited Section 111 Camp Ellis Beach Shore Damage Mitigation Project on June 30 during a press conference.
The project addresses persistent shore damage and erosion at Camp Ellis Beach, which has historically experienced significant erosion in-part caused by the existing north jetty that protects the entrance to the Saco River.
The federally implementable plan includes the construction of a 750-foot-long stone spur jetty designed to alter wave action and reduce erosion. Following the jetty’s completion, an initial placement of approximately 73,170 cubic yards of sand will nourish Camp Ellis Beach. The plan also includes provisions for future beach renourishment to help maintain shoreline stability.
“We are thrilled to see this critical project move forward for the people of Saco,” said Colonel Justin Pabis, Commander of the USACE New England District. “This project is a testament to the long-standing partnership between the Corps, the state of Maine, and the local community to help address the erosion at Camp Ellis.”
The project is authorized for a total cost of $45 million under the Water Resources Development Act of 2022. The contract for the spur jetty construction was awarded to Mohawk Northeast, Inc. for $24,434,100. Construction is expected to be completed in August 2027, with the initial beach nourishment scheduled for 2028. The City of Saco will assume responsibility for the project’s ongoing operation and maintenance upon completion. More information about the project can be found https://www.nae.usace.army.mil/missions/projects-topics/section-111-camp-ellis-beach-shore-damage-mitigation-project/
The speakers were: The Honorable Adam Telle (Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works), Senator Susan Collins, Senator Angus King, Representative Chellie Pingree, Mayor Jodi MacPhail, and Colonel Justin Pabis.
