Case Study: Rockaway Dune & Coastal Resilience Project

Client: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (via Michels Corporation)
Location: Rockaway Peninsula, Queens, NY
Slated Completion: 2027

Project Overview

The Rockaway Peninsula is one of New York City’s most storm-vulnerable coastlines. Following repeated hurricane and nor’easter damage, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers launched a multi-year coastal storm risk management program. The initiative combines engineered defenses—berms, seawalls, and groins—with large-scale ecological restoration designed to stabilize dunes, restore habitats, and protect surrounding communities.

Eastern’s Role

Eastern Landscape Contractors is performing critical environmental scopes central to the program’s success. Our work includes:

• Dune Plantings: Installation of more than 860,000 American beachgrass culms along with native shrubs and perennials including Rosa rugosa, Rhus aromatica, Beach Plum, Seaside Goldenrod, and Northern Bayberry.
• Soil Stabilization: Placement of over 43,000 SY of coir matting to secure dunes during establishment.
• Sand Fencing: Installation of 110,000 LF of sand fence to trap windblown sand and accelerate dune formation.
• Perimeter Protection: Furnishing and installing split rail fencing to delineate sensitive dune zones and limit disturbance.

Progress & Impact

As work advances, Eastern’s scopes are helping stabilize newly constructed dunes and restore native coastal ecology. These measures are designed to strengthen natural defenses while enhancing habitat for species such as the piping plover and seabeach amaranth.

Looking Ahead

Scheduled for completion in 2027, the Rockaway program will leave behind a reinforced, ecologically functional shoreline. Eastern’s contribution underscores our ability to deliver large-scale, compliance-driven landscape construction in coordination with federal agencies and top civil contractors.