After years of planning and 18 months of construction, Rehoboth Beach officially opened its new Beach Patrol headquarters and public restroom facility last week to the public. 

Located at the eastern end of Baltimore Avenue, the two-story building was unveiled with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 22nd, despite the rainy weather. 

The event included ceremonial bell ringing and drew city officials, lifeguards, and community members to take a look at this brand new, stunning patrol building for all lifeguards & similar staff.

Capt. Jeff Giles, who has led the Beach Patrol since 2021 and served as a lifeguard in the 1980s, called the new building a true home for current and former lifeguards. 

“This is a place where alumni can return, share their wisdom, and honor the legacy of Rehoboth's lifeguarding tradition,” said Giles.

Designed for the Public and Patrol

The $5.7 million building serves a dual purpose: The first floor is dedicated to public restrooms and family changing stations, with ample opportunity for usage during the day, while the second floor houses lifeguard operations, complete with medical bays and staff facilities. 

The project faced procedural and construction delays before finally stabilizing in 2024. 

Key features include:

• Fully ADA-accessible design
• Four public changing rooms with benches and two family restrooms
• 96 staff lockers, with co-ed accommodations
• Three showers and multiple staff restrooms
• Medical facilities for minor emergencies, like jellyfish stings
• Space for 32 bikes and two ATV garages
• A 28-foot-tall flagpole facing the beach

City Manager Taylour Tedder emphasized that the modern facility meets the needs of today’s beachgoers and emergency response teams. 

It replaces the outdated 1980s structure that had only one bathroom and no space for a growing, co-ed staff to keep our beachgoers safe day in and day out.

A Changing Boardwalk Landscape

This building is part of broader redevelopment efforts along the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk. 

Nearby, the One Rehoboth project is constructing a 60-room hotel with ground-floor retail and underground parking. 

While some longtime visitors express nostalgia for lost landmarks like mini-golf and rooftop dining spots, others are optimistic about the fresh appeal of modern amenities and how they will serve the public better in the long run.

Mayor Stan Mills celebrated the Beach Patrol’s growth from a two-person team in 1921 to 80 person strong, seasonal staff today, including lifeguards, EMTs, and beach ambassadors. 

The new headquarters not only supports safety efforts, but also reflects Rehoboth’s evolution as a beach destination for many visitors in and out of our beaches each and every year.

Lifeguards Now On Duty

As of May 24th, lifeguards have officially taken their stands for the summer season. 

They will remain on duty through three weeks after Labor Day, ensuring safety for thousands of beach visitors.

• Weekday hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Weekend and holiday hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Stay tuned to our blog for the latest developments, events, and stories shaping life in Coastal Delaware. 

Have thoughts on the new beach patrol building or boardwalk changes? Share your comments below!

Sources: Cape Gazette, WHYY, Delaware Public Media