Not Enough Sand to Repair Babylon Beaches by Summer

Babylon officials are working feverishly to repair the town's pools, docks and marinas by Memorial Day weekend, but there may not be enough sand to replenish the beaches. 

Newsday reported deputy supervisor Tony Martinez as saying the town has not found a source of sand to replenish Cedar, Gilgo and Overlook beaches by season opening on Memorial Day weekend. This may prevent the beaches from being fully restored until the fall.  

Martinez estimated the three beaches lost a total of 200,000 cubic yards of sand as result of Sandy and replenishment efforts could cost $10 million. Town officials have looked into using sand dredged out of the clogged Fire Island Inlet, which could be paid for by federal funds. 

In January, supervisor Rich Schaffer wrote a letter to residents stating Cedar Beach Marina and Gilgo Beach were among the town's heaviest damaged facilities. 

An engineering firm has been hired to design a new marina for Cedar Beach including a 50 amp electrical service and new electrical and water service throughout. Work started last week as their contract includes stiff penalties will be instituted if the Memorial Day deadline is not met. 

Click here to read more on Newsday [subscription required] on Babylon's difficulty finding sand to replenish their beaches.