Rehoboth Beach Patrol Headquarters: A New Era of Safety and Convenience

Rehoboth Beach is on track to see a major upgrade to its Beach Patrol headquarters, with a proposed two-story facility designed to enhance both public convenience and emergency response capabilities. If all goes according to plan, the new headquarters could be operational by the summer of 2025, offering much-needed improvements for both lifeguards and visitors.

A Long-Awaited Upgrade

Discussions about replacing the aging Beach Patrol headquarters and improving public restrooms have been ongoing since 2018. However, progress was stalled by the pandemic. In 2022, city commissioners revived the project and reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the facility at its current Baltimore Avenue location.

A Modernized Design for Functionality and Accessibility

The new headquarters, designed by Milford-based Davis, Bowen & Friedel, will occupy roughly the same footprint as the current structure but will double in square footage. Standing at 38 feet tall—compared to the existing 24-foot building—it will incorporate modern amenities while remaining compliant with federal flood regulations.

First Floor: Public Facilities and Emergency Care

• Public restrooms with family restrooms and changing stations
• Heated interiors for year-round use
• Emergency care station for immediate medical assistance
• Elevated design to comply with floodplain regulations, featuring ADA-accessible ramps

Second Floor: Enhanced Operations for Beach Patrol

• Locker rooms and meeting rooms for lifeguards
• Heat and air conditioning for year-round comfort
• Boardwalk-facing balcony for an unobstructed view of the beach
• Two parking spaces built into the structure for ATVs

Transforming the Streetscape

A major addition to the project includes a redesigned streetscape west of the headquarters, transforming Baltimore Avenue into a more pedestrian-friendly gateway. The plan proposes:

• A circular plaza replacing a dozen parking spaces near the Boardwalk
• Three handicap parking spaces adjacent to the headquarters
• Six angled parking spaces on the south side
• Dedicated parking for large trucks on the north side

Described as a “mini Rehoboth Avenue,” the redesigned streetscape aims to improve pedestrian flow and accessibility between Baltimore Avenue and the Boardwalk.

Cost and Construction Timeline

The estimated cost of the project is approximately $5 million. According to architect Michael Wigley, the construction timeline is projected as follows:

• End of 2023: Completion of the final design and construction documents
• July 2023: Bidding process and contract award
• September 2023: Demolition of the current headquarters
• Memorial Day 2024: Completion of public restrooms and the beach patrol building shell
• September 2024 – May 2025: Final construction phase, with full completion by Memorial Day 2025

Next Steps and Community Input

While city commissioners have reviewed the design, local businesses such as Atlantic Sands, the Admiral on Baltimore, and Grotto Pizza have not yet been consulted on the streetscape changes. Future discussions will likely involve these stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition.

As the project moves forward, the new Rehoboth Beach Patrol headquarters is set to improve public safety, accessibility, and the overall Boardwalk experience—ushering in a new era for this beloved coastal destination.

Source: New Beach Patrol HQ & Comfort Station Coming to Baltimore Ave.