The project marks a significant milestone for the low-lying island in the Kwajalein Atoll, strengthening protection for residents, homes, roads, and critical infrastructure while delivering environmental improvements for the local community.
Designed by international consulting engineering firm Haskoning, on behalf of the RMI Ministry of Public Works, Infrastructure and Utilities (MPWIU) and constructed by Australian dredging and marine infrastructure company Hall Contracting, the seawall will provide long-term protection from sea level rise of up to 0.5 meters. The scope also evolved beyond its original coastal protection brief to deliver wider benefits for the people of Ebeye.
For the first time, residents can safely walk along the island’s ocean frontage using an illuminated footpath incorporated alongside the new coastal defenses. The route provides a connection from one end of the island to the other, improving access to the waterfront during the day and evening when sea conditions allow.
The seawall has also been integrated with the island’s new road drainage scheme, with seven drainage outfalls incorporated into the revetment, helping roads drain more effectively during periods of heavy rainfall.
“Completing the seawall is an important moment for Ebeye and the wider Marshall Islands. It demonstrates how well-designed climate adaptation infrastructure can provide tangible protection for communities already experiencing the impacts of a changing climate, while delivering lasting benefits that improve everyday life,” said Dr. Martin Budd, Technical Director at Haskoning.
Construction also transformed Ebeye’s ocean frontage, with 1,500 tonnes of waste cleared during the works. Steel was removed for recycling, while discarded concrete was repurposed, leaving the coastline significantly cleaner. Delivering the seawall required the mobilization of extensive equipment and materials to the remote island, including 84,000 tonnes of armor rock and fill.
“Mobilizing the large volumes of equipment and materials required to such a remote location was a major logistical undertaking,” said Cameron Hall, CEO & Director at Hall Contracting.
“Our team sourced the specialized armor rock from the United Arab Emirates and coordinated its transport to the Marshall Islands via bulk carrier, while also mobilizing significant plant, equipment and construction materials from Australia via barge.”
Mr. Hall said the project had created valuable employment and training opportunities for Marshallese workers, including opportunities for women to gain experience in traditionally male-dominated construction roles.
“At peak workforce levels, we employed approximately 35 Marshallese workers on the project alongside our expatriate team, with these team members receiving training in operating plant and survey equipment,” he said.
“This project highlights what can be achieved in remote Pacific communities by combining strong technical capability with careful logistical planning and meaningful local participation.”
The Rukjellen Ebeye seawall and footpath were implemented by the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands under the Pacific Resilience Program – Phase II (PREP II). This project forms part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen climate and disaster resilience. The initiative was funded by the World Bank, the Green Climate Fund, and the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (GRMI), and has received significant local support from the community, the Kwajalein Atoll Development Authority (KADA), Kwajalein Atoll Local Government (KALGov), and Kwajalein Leaders.
Haskoning Australia and Hall Contracting recognize and thank all those who contributed to the successful delivery of this important climate resilience project.
