Shoreline Stabilization at Sandy Hook

Sandy Hook Chapel

NPS Photo

Project Vision and Purpose

The National Park Service is replacing two seawalls in Gateway's Sandy Hook Unit. The seawalls at Sandy Hook are primary park assets, safeguarding critical infrastructure and historic structures within a National Landmark District, with replacements providing 40 years of protection. This $83 million dollar project is estimated to be completed in 2025.

For centuries, the safest way to sail into New York Harbor was by hugging the shore of Sandy Hook, where the water was deepest. This six mile peninsula had an outsize influence on the safety of the harbor and the defense of New York City. From its days as a British colony and outpost to the era of nuclear missiles, Sandy Hook lighted the paths of seafarers and protected New Yorkers from potential attack and invasion. Since the Federal government completed purchase of the entire peninsula in 1814, it was spared the commercial development that dominates much of the New Jersey coast. In 1982, the Sandy Hook peninsula was designated as the Fort Hancock and Sandy Hook Proving Ground National Historic Landmark.