The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has begun the final phase of the Grand Strand beach renourishment project in Surfside Beach and Garden City, South Carolina, marking the culmination of the multi-city effort that began in North Myrtle Beach last December.

Officials caution that the timeline and progress could be affected by weather and equipment availability, and plans will be adjusted as needed to keep the project on track.

The renourishment aims to restore about 26 miles of coastline eroded by hurricanes Ian and Debby, widen beaches, and strengthen dunes to shield coastal communities from storms and flooding.

Construction for the final phase began on a Friday and is expected to run through the end of August, with work conducted in sections to minimize disruption for beachgoers.