A new plan is in place to protect the historic lighthouse in Montauk.

The state has announced $24 million in funding to begin building back the stonework that surrounds and protects the landmark.

Centuries of ocean waves have eroded about 200 feet of the stone and has put the lighthouse in danger.

Construction is expected to start later this year and could take 18 months to complete.

The Montauk Point Lighthouse is the first lighthouse ever built in New York. It dates back to 1796 and was commissioned by George Washington.