KEY TAKEAWAYS: St. Tammany Parish begins $2.4 million Tchefuncte Breakwater construction project 1,750-foot rock structure designed to reduce wave energy and shoreline erosion Project funded through GoMESA dollars with multiple engineering partners involved Part of 16 regional coastal protecti on projects from Madisonville to Slidell and Pearl River corridor   St. Tammany Parish has begun construction on a $2.4 million coastal protection project along the Tchefuncte River, marking a major effort to reduce shoreline erosion and strengthen long-term resilience in the Madisonville area. Parish President Mike Cooper announced the start of work on the Tchefuncte Breakwater, a 1,750-foot rock structure designed to reduce wave energy and stabilize vulnerable stretches of shoreline. The project is intended to protect both environmental and economic assets tied to the river. “St. Tammany Parish is a coastal parish, and our decisions must reflect that,” said Cooper. “This project is an investment in the future of the Tchefuncte River and the communities that depend on it. By taking proactive steps now, we are helping preserve one of our region’s most important natural and economic assets for generations to come.” Officials said the breakwater is engineered to allow water to flow over it during high-water events, a design intended to encourage natural marsh growth and support long-term shoreline restoration. The project is funded through GoMESA dollars. Digital Engineering served as the engineering consultant, while CurranCo will oversee construction. Parish officials said a future phase, in partnership with the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, is expected to extend the breakwater system. “This is about protecting our environment, supporting recreation and commerce, and ensuring our waterways remain sustainable for years to come,” said District 4 Councilwoman Kathy Seiden. “The project provides emergency shoreline protection from immediate erosion threats, while working in harmony with the flow of the Tchefuncte River.” The Tchefuncte Breakwater is one of 16 coastal protection projects spanning from Madisonville to Slidell and along the Pearl River corridor, aimed at strengthening regional infrastructure and protecting communities from erosion and coastal impacts. Construction is underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026. ...read more read less