The Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters is a vital facility located on the boardwalk at Baltimore Avenue in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. This two-story, 5,500-square foot building serves as the command center for the Rehoboth Beach Patrol, providing lifeguard services, emergency medical assistance, and public amenities to beachgoers.
What is the Current Status and Construction of the Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters?
The construction of the new Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters and Comfort Station began in December 2023, with an expected completion date of May 2025. The project was delayed from an anticipated September 2023 start due to the need for a Planning Commission report and public hearing related to the abandonment of the eastern terminus of Baltimore Avenue.
As of August 2, 2024, 90% of the foundation concrete piles have been poured, and the focus is on installing concrete masonry units and associated electrical conduit and plumbing.
What are the Key Features and Design of the Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters?
The new Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters is designed to be fully accessible, with public facilities on the first level and the beach patrol on the second level. The building’s design aims to provide improved sightlines for lifeguards along the beach, quick response and functionality, a gateway between the boardwalk and Baltimore Avenue, flexibility for after-hours and non-seasonal use, and an accessible and easily navigable public comfort station from the boardwalk.
What Services and Operations are Provided at the Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters?
The Rehoboth Beach Patrol provides lifeguard services from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through three weeks following Labor Day. Lifeguards are on duty from 10 am-5 pm weekdays and 10 am-5:30 pm weekends. The headquarters also houses an Emergency Medical Unit and offers beach-accessible wheelchairs available from 10 am-5 pm daily on a first-come, first-served basis during the summer season.
Who Leads the Rehoboth Beach Patrol?
The Rehoboth Beach Patrol was established in 1921 and is considered one of the nation’s leading beach patrols. Captain Jeffrey Giles has been leading the patrol since 2021.
What is the Budget and Who are the Contractors for the Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters?
Delmarva Veteran Builders was awarded the construction contract for $4,897,000, and EDiS Company serves as the construction manager.
What Other Noteworthy Information is There About the Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters?
Rehoboth Beach hosted the 2022 Mid-Atlantic Regional Championships and the regional Lifeguard Olympics. Additionally, as of 2017, no tents and/or canopies are allowed on the beach during the summer season.
References:
1. https://reachout.cityofrehoboth.com/new-beach-patrol-hq-comfort-station-coming-to-baltimore-ave
2. https://www.cityofrehoboth.com/beach-and-boardwalk/rehoboth-beach-patrol
3. https://www.rehobothbeachpatrol.com
4. https://www.capegazette.com/article/demo-old-rehoboth-beach-patrol-building-has-begun/270303
5. https://www.rehobothbeachpatrol.com/contact-us/