Posted on November 6, 2024
GALVESTON, Texas — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Galveston District (SWG) and Matagorda County Officials have indefinitely closed a section of federally owned property, known as Sargent Beach (West Mooring Dock Park and the Sargent Public Boat Ramp).
The designated areas of the boat ramp, mooring dock, and access road (referred to as County Road 238 or West Revetment Road) along the Gulf of Mexico are now closed due to safety concerns stemming from significant erosion and compromised infrastructure caused by recent storms. The decision aligns with USACE’s mission requirements, public safety, and a shared stakeholder commitment to protect beach visitors, reduce risks, and ensure environmentally sustainable practices while potential solutions to reopening access are examined.
“Our shared responsibility to protect life and safety while ensuring the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW) is protected are part of our core missions,” said Neil Murphy, Galveston District’s public affairs chief. “The decision to halt beach access ensures that we are doing our part to keep the community free from harm while we work to address options to improve it and make it safe for public use.”
To prevent unauthorized access, a gate will be installed with clear signage indicating that the area is closed until further notice. The public is not authorized to enter the closed section of Sargent Beach and the boat ramp will no longer be accessible by vehicle or vessel traffic. “Residents and visitors are urged to respect the closures for their individual safety and the safety of others,” Murphy added.
Past serviceability inspections highlighted problems with the access road and facilities in the area, including public park amenities established under a no-fee lease agreement with Matagorda County. An additional assessment conducted on March 1, 2023, identified important safety considerations and suggested steps for mitigation before the lease expired in July 2023. USACE continues to work closely with Matagorda County officials to explore lease renewal options that incorporate necessary engineering and safety enhancements.
Sargent Beach experiences one of the highest erosion rate areas along the Gulf of Mexico barrier islands. Studies conducted through the 1970s and 80s indicated that storm surge was threatening to breach the island, potentially impacting the GIWW. In response, and according to mission requirements of the organization, USACE constructed an 8-mile revetment wall and dirt road between 1995 and 1998 to safeguard against such breaches. A section of dirt access road was paved and renamed CR 238 for access to the park. The paved section of the road had been maintained by Matagorda County as part of the park lease arrangement.
USACE remains dedicated to developing balanced solutions that prioritize safety, mission requirements, and environmental stewardship. As stewards of taxpayer dollars and the environment, the Galveston District is committed to delivering projects that are timely, cost-effective, and sustainable.
For further updates regarding the Sargent Beach closure and plans for the area, please visit www.swg.usace.army.mil or contact the Galveston District Public Affairs Office.
