Ocean access closed in Dewey Beach
After an overnight closure Sept. 7 due to extremely high tide and dangerous surf conditions, the beach in Dewey was reopened Sept. 8, but ocean access is closed for all recreation, said Town Manager Bill Zolper.
Dewey Beach Patrol Capt. Todd Fritchman has five to seven lifeguards on patrol today to ensure no one goes into the ocean past their knees, Zolper said. A stationary guard is posted at both the north and south ends of town, and three roving patrols on ATV are cruising back and forth on the beach, Zolper said.
High tide will occur about 7:30 p.m., with tides starting to come in about 5 p.m. The dunes are doing what they’re supposed to do, Zolper added, but he expects the surf to reach the dunes during high tide.
Another advisory may be issued later in the day, he said.
Zolper said he spoke yesterday with Jesse Hayden of Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, who said he expects the Army Corps of Engineers to issue a bid for beach replenishment within the next two weeks.
Rehoboth and Dewey beaches will be replenished at the same time. Once the contract is signed, a timeline for replenishment will be established, Zolper said, noting he hopes it will occur over the fall or winter months.
