Buxton, NC
Strategic sand placement in the Outer Banks strengthens the shoreline and fortifies NC 12 against chronic erosion and storm-driven flooding.
At a Glance
Buxton’s long-term beach nourishment program has rebuilt and maintained a resilient shoreline buffer through major projects in 2018, 2022, and 2026. Supported by ongoing surveys, monitoring, and offshore sand investigations, each nourishment has reinforced storm protection for Highway NC 12 and adjacent infrastructure while reducing vulnerability to chronic erosion, flooding, and overwash.
Protecting Highway NC 12 from Chronic Erosion and Overwash
A critical coastal transportation corridor faces persistent erosion, flooding, and storm-driven overwash that threaten the only highway access through this portion of Hatteras Island. Narrow beaches and vulnerable dunes leave Highway NC 12, nearby infrastructure, and oceanfront properties exposed during severe weather. Recurring nourishment provides a proactive strategy for maintaining the shoreline buffer and protecting vital community access.
Science-Driven Nourishment to Protect Critical Coastal Access
CSE has supported successive nourishment projects through detailed shoreline surveys, sediment testing, offshore borrow-area investigations, engineering design, and monitoring. Major nourishment projects in 2018, 2022, and 2026 have strategically replaced sand lost to erosion and storms, rebuilding the beach and dune system while adapting each project to evolving shoreline conditions.
Resilient Nourishment Safeguarding Vital Infrastructure
Successive nourishment projects have maintained a robust beach buffer that helps protect Highway NC 12 from chronic erosion, flooding, and storm-driven overwash. By restoring the shoreline as conditions evolve, the program protects critical infrastructure, preserves vital access along Hatteras Island, and provides a science-driven framework for long-term shoreline management.
Project Transformation
See the dramatic difference our coastal engineering solutions made.
Large-scale beach nourishment restored protective beach width, helping shield NC 12 from erosion, storm surge, and overwash while improving long-term shoreline performance.
"Persistent, chronic erosion threatens oceanfront structures and necessitates continuous monitoring of beach conditions and forward planning for future shoreline restoration projects."
Patrick Barrineau
CSE/Project Manager
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