Destin, Florida Beach Restoration Project to Begin

DESTIN, Fla. – A significant collaborative effort is underway in Okaloosa County to revitalize a beach severely impacted by erosion caused by Hurricane Sally in 2020. A nearly $10 million beach restoration project is slated to commence in west Destin on March 23rd, promising to restore this beloved coastal area for generations to come.

“In 2020, when we lost a substantial portion of our beach during Hurricane Sally,” explained Teresa Hebert, Destin City Councilwoman and Mayor Pro Tempore, “it’s been a lengthy process to secure FEMA assistance and coordinate with the county. This project isn’t just for today; it’s an investment in the future, ensuring our children and grandchildren can enjoy this beautiful coastline.”

Project Details & Timeline

The ambitious project will involve dredging and placing over 150,000 cubic yards of sand. The restoration area stretches from the jetty to the east side of South Bay, near the Gulf Condos. Residents and visitors can anticipate seeing equipment mobilizing by the end of March, with the actual dredging and sand renourishment operations beginning in April.

Nick Tomecek, Okaloosa County Public Information Officer (PIO), stated, “People will start seeing equipment going out there by the end of March. Then they’ll start the actual dredging. And then they’ll start the actual pumping and renourishing of the beach in April.”

Funding & Benefits

The project is overwhelmingly funded by FEMA, contributing 90% of the total cost, with the remaining 10% sourced from beach restoration reserves. According to Tomecek, a key requirement for FEMA funding is property protection. “So, the primary function of this project is to safeguard structures – condos, homes – from future storms and erosion. However, it will also greatly enhance the experience for beachgoers enjoying the sand and the emerald-green waters.”

City of Destin officials have expressed their gratitude for the collaborative partnership with the county commission and FEMA. Hebert added, “It’s wonderful to see this come to fruition, especially as spring break approaches and we prepare for the summer influx of visitors. We’re fortunate to have such a beautiful area – a little slice of paradise that everyone desires.”

Beach Access During Restoration

The good news for locals and tourists is that the west Destin beach will remain open and accessible to the public throughout the project. Temporary, localized closures may occur in areas where sand is actively being placed. The project is expected to be fully completed by the end of April.

For more information on coastal restoration efforts and hurricane preparedness, visit the FEMA website.

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