VIDEO: Major Galveston Beach Expansion

A major beach expansion is moving ahead in Galveston, representing the largest sand nourishment project to take place on the Texas Gulf Coast this summer.

The project will use 725,000 cubic yards of sand dredged from the Galveston Ship Channel to create 20 blocks of additional beach along the island’s seawall between 61st and 81st streets.

“This is the single largest volume of sand ever placed on Galveston’s beaches,” said Park Board Executive Director Kelly de Schaun. “This project is part of a long-term strategy to build public beaches, protect community assets from storm surges and increase property values on the island.”

The $23-million-project is a collaborative effort sponsored by the Galveston Park Board, City of Galveston and the Texas General Land Office.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Galveston District, which routinely dredges the ship channel every 18-24 months, will place the material on the beach in lieu of offshore.