U.S. Senator Susan Collins, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee, has announced securing $23 million for the Maine Army Corps of Engineers to address erosion issues at Camp Ellis in Saco. This funding is part of the Fiscal Year 2025 full-year continuing resolution and will be used to construct a 750-foot spur jetty and replenish approximately 300,000 cubic yards of sand fill.
Senator Collins stated, “The construction of a spur jetty at Camp Ellis will help to prevent the severe erosion that has destroyed dozens of residents’ homes over generations.” She emphasized her efforts as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee to secure this funding, which aims to resolve ongoing erosion problems and protect property.
Jodi MacPhail, Mayor of Saco, expressed gratitude towards Senator Collins: “On behalf of the City of Saco, we cannot be more thankful for the hard work and dedication to Senator Collins for securing these funds.” John Bohenko, Saco City Administrator, also acknowledged her contributions: “The City of Saco is very appreciative of Senator Collins’ hard work.”
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers initially built a jetty over 150 years ago extending from the Saco River near Camp Ellis Beach. The expansion in the 1950s altered currents and sand deposition patterns significantly contributing to severe erosion at Camp Ellis, resulting in the loss of 38 homes. By 1998, the shoreline had receded by 400 feet from its position in 1908.
