Dredging at the Salt Ponds Inlet in Hampton, Virginia, was recently completed, improving safe navigation and highlighting the impact of long-term infrastructure upgrades. VHB supported the successful removal of more than 18,000 cubic yards of sediment—sandy material that was strategically bypassed to the south to help renourish the public beach at Salt Ponds. This milestone was made possible thanks to critical stabilization and permitting efforts completed in 2020.
Originally developed in the 1970s to support waterfront growth, the Salt Ponds Inlet was formed to connect a small tidal creek with the Chesapeake Bay. Over time, natural coastal processes led to frequent sediment buildup in the inlet, making regular dredging necessary to maintain safe passage. To address these challenges, the City of Hampton partnered with VHB to strengthen the inlet structure and improve overall functionality. VHB led the infrastructure design, permitting, and construction documentation to support a more resilient solution.
“This project is a great example of how thoughtful infrastructure design can fundamentally shift the way a community maintains and manages its natural resources,” said Rebecca Francese, VHB Project Manager. “Before the improvements, Salt Ponds needed dredging every two years. Now, we’ve reduced that to every six. That’s not just cost savings—it’s peace of mind for residents and boaters who rely on a safe and stable inlet.”
Looking ahead, the city and its partners are better equipped to manage the natural sediment transport along the Bay shoreline, which moves approximately 20,000 cubic yards of material annually. By engineering long-term solutions—like stabilizing the inlet and understanding the region’s sediment transport dynamics, and repurposing dredged sand for beach nourishment—Hampton can extend the lifespan of future dredging operations, preserve public recreation space, and better support safe navigation for years to come.
While each inlet system is unique, this project shows how site-specific infrastructure solutions can deliver lasting performance and community benefits.
Learn more about how VHB supports resilient coastal infrastructure or contact Rebecca via email to learn more about this project.
