CHARLESTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) — Emergency repair work on the western wall of the Charlestown Breachway began on Friday after it was previously damaged by winter storms.

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) said the work will prevent further hazards to boaters, reduce the amount of sand going into Ninigret Pond and protect coastal properties from more erosion.

Without the stone wall, water has been pulling sand in front of the breachway and into the channel, changing the depth and making the channel more narrow.

Crews will be removing some of the sediment and placing large boulders to partially restore the structural integrity of the breachway. The DEM said the temporary fix will also help maintain water flow and improve navigation.

"DEM and the town of Charlestown remain committed to the successful completion of repairs to the breachway and looking at the long-term repairs and upgrades for this important coastal infrastructure," DEM Director Terry Gray said in a press release.

The temporary fix is estimated to cost around $500,000, with both DEM and the town of Charlestown contributing to the funding.

Boaters should continue to use caution when traveling through the breachway.