The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) began a $14.9 million phase of breakwater repairs at Oswego Harbor, New York, during the week of September 21.
The Buffalo District said the phased work covers approximately 1,600 feet (488 metres) of the Outer West and East Arrowhead breakwaters, with construction scheduled to continue through 2028. Michigan-based Dean Marine and Excavating received the $14.9 million contract in April.
The federal navigation channel is to stay accessible throughout construction, although contractor equipment may occupy part of it. USACE has urged commercial and recreational vessel operators to navigate carefully on their way into and out of the channel and stay clear of the equipment.
Phase one covers 600 feet (183 metres) of the Outer West Breakwater and is scheduled for completion by November 2026. Work on that section began in August 2025 under an earlier $9.1 million contract.
USACE awarded the earlier contract to Great Lakes Dock and Materials. Dean Marine’s 2026 contract covers work on both the Outer West and East Arrowhead breakwaters.
In the latest schedule, phase two covers 550 feet (168 metres) of the East Arrowhead Breakwater and a further 500 feet (152 metres) of the Outer West Breakwater. It is due to begin in September and finish in 2028.
The May contract announcement specified 425 feet (130 metres) of East Arrowhead and 307 feet (94 metres) of Outer West work, less than the lengths given in the September schedule.
A third, funded phase will involve further repairs to both breakwaters. USACE is targeting the start of construction on that phase between 2027 and 2028.
“The breakwaters do more than protect shipping channels, they defend our shorelines from waves and erosion,” Lt. Col. Aaron Anderson, the Buffalo District commander, said.