VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WVEC) — VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WVEC) — Restoration crews are getting ready to start work on the Cape Henry Lighthouse. They will work to stabilize the top of the dune and the sandstone base of the Virginia Beach landmark.
The lighthouse is the oldest federally funded project and guided sailors for centuries, according to site coordinator Jessica Collins, part of Preservation Virginia.
“This lighthouse just really represents the beginning of the United States government and paving the way of the United States of America, so it's the first thing we ever built,” said Collins.
The national historic landmark commands visitors from near and far, like Tawnya Myers, who’s visiting from Ohio.
“I think it’s just amazing to be part of something to see something like this – I never ever dreamed I would,” said Myers.
Virginia Beach local Josh Honeycutt said he’s visited the lighthouse countless times because he loves the view and what the site represents.
“From the second that you walk on the grounds on the dune up here, you can just feel the history,” said Honeycutt.
However, the lighthouse has taken a beating from strong storms and ocean winds for the past 226 years, leading to erosion.
“Moisture and wind just damages this original surface and it’s just going to continue to do that if we leave it exposed,” said Mark Reed, City of Virginia Beach Historic Preservation Planner.
The $1.1 million project, called the Cape Henry Lighthouse Dune and Base Stabilization Construction Project, is expected to last about six months. Construction crews will raise the height of the dune and cap it in place with concrete to prevent further erosion.
Brick pavers will be added to the pedestrian plaza, which will be surrounded by a metal railing. New steps will also be added for access into the tower.
Visitors will not be able to climb the tower during construction, but Preservation Virginia will still offer guided walking tours of the 226-year-old lighthouse.
The lighthouse, completed in 1792, was approved by George Washington and overseen by Alexander Hamilton. You might recognize it as the centerpiece of the Virginia Beach city seal.
PHOTOS: Cape Henry Lighthouse restoration project
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