$30.7M Revetment Project Set To Shore Up Montauk Lighthouse

MONTAUK, NY — One of the East End's most iconic destinations is ready for work to begin aimed at keeping it safe from erosion: Heavy construction is set to begin this week on the Montauk Point Lighthouse project, with stone revetment underway.

“For over two centuries, Montauk Point Lighthouse has served as one of the most recognizable symbols in our region, evoking a sense of community among Long Islanders, and attracting visitors from across the United States and foreign nations. This critical project is an investment in the future of not only Montauk Point Lighthouse, but Long Island as a whole," Rep. Lee Zeldin said.

He added that the landmark currently sits less than 100 feet from the receding edge of the bluff.

"Its deteriorating stonework revetment is the only thing left protecting the lighthouse from being lost to the ocean due to erosion," Zeldin said. "This project will bolster the shoreline and provide safety reinforcements, including an 840-foot revetment with a 73-year level of protection for the lighthouse, that will ensure Montauk Point Lighthouse will continue to shine for generations to come.”

Zeldin said he has worked alongside the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which awarded a $30.7 million contract to H&L Contracting of Bay Shore for the restoration work.

According to the Lighthouse's website, the Montauk Point Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in New York State, authorized by the Second Congress, under President George Washington, in 1792.

Construction began on June 7, 1796, and was completed on November 5, 1796; it still serves as an aid to navigation, the site said. The Montauk Point Lighthouse was designated a National Historic Landmark on March 5, 2012.