Great Bay Beach
to be replenished
PHILIPSBURG--Sunbathers will soon have a larger beach to laze on when Great Bay Beach is replenished with sand dredged from the bay later this year, according to Harbour Affairs Commissioner Theo Heyliger.
The beach, along which the promenade was built, was replenished with sand after hurricane Luis hit the island in 1995. The devastating hurricane washed away the beach and brought waves lapping at the buildings.
Sand dredged during the construction of Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise and Cargo Facilities was used to rebuild the beach. In the past five years, the beach has been eroded gradually by waves.
To rebuild the beach this time, sand dredged up to make way for the next genesis-class pier will be used.
Heyliger told The Daily Herald the width of the beach will also be increased slightly.
The replenishing will also benefit businesses along the beach because more people will be able to use the beach once the project is completed.
