News & Updates
USACE Provides Elected Leaders Tour of Shore Protection Navigation Projects
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Jacksonville District command leadership, hosted by the Canaveral Port Authority (CPA), provided U.S. Rep. Mike Haridopolos (FL-8) with a waterside tour of multiple projects totaling over $150 million in federal funding that ensure the continued safe navigation of Canaveral Harbor and preserve Brevard County’s shoreline.
“The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District has a long and storied history on this coastline,” said Col. Brandon Bowman, USACE Jacksonville District Commander. “We built and have maintained the Federal channel at Port Canaveral since the 1950s as a deep draft harbor that provides a safe, reliable, and efficient transportation system for the movement of commerce, the meeting of national security needs, and the energization of local economy through recreation.”
In the last three years, the Federal government has invested over $150 million between five projects, and, through creative strategies, the Corps is forecasted to save Federal taxpayers over $20 million by combining and optimizing projects in ways that make sense, in the name of efficiency.
Congressman Haridopolos joined Jacksonville District Commander Col. Bowman, Canaveral Port Authority Board Chairman Wayne Justice, and Brevard County representatives aboard Canaveral Fire Rescue’s Fireboat 2 for a tour of the project areas, which begin at the northern point of Canaveral Harbor and extend south toward Melbourne Beach.
“The Canaveral Sand Bypass Project is a prime example of how we can protect our coastline while strengthening our economy. By working together, the Army Corps, the Port, and Brevard County are ensuring safe navigation, storm resilience, and a thriving shoreline for generations to come,” said Congressman Haridopolos. “This project not only safeguards our homes and businesses but also preserves the natural beauty that makes our community so special. I’m proud to support this partnership and will continue working to secure critical funding for projects that enhance both our economy and environment.”
The Canaveral Sand Bypass Project and the Brevard County Mid and South Reach Shore Protection Projects are administered and managed by the USACE Jacksonville District in partnership with non-Federal sponsors, the Canaveral Port Authority and Brevard County. The beach renourishment initiatives involve the dredging and bypassing of approximately 1.5 million cubic yards of sand from north of the entrance to Port Canaveral, restoring miles of shoreline south of the Port. These efforts have helped protect the economy, homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure, helping to sustain the livelihood of Americans living on and investing in these beaches.
“Port Canaveral appreciates the support of Representative Haridopolos and grateful for our partnership with the Army Corps whose efforts are essential to maintaining safe navigation and preserving our shorelines,” said CPA Chairman Justice. “Their collective efforts are integral to our Port community’s continued growth and success.”
In partnership with the USACE Jacksonville District, Port Canaveral and Brevard County look forward to a more efficient harbor, a more resilient shoreline and a bright future with beautiful beaches.