Reconstruction Project for Critical Stretch of Beach
Storm protection, ecosystem conservation, and preservation of a popular recreation destination all in one project.
Since 1996, ongoing maintenance efforts to mitigate erosion along the northern four miles of the county coastline have proved to be a crucial commitment. While encroaching seawater could threaten to undermine the integrity of residential structures and flood A1A during a major storm, the county’s foresight in securing a partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has created a partnership to maintain critical storm protection for county infrastructure, an essential evacuation route and private property in the area.
Surveys were conducted to confirm the minimum beach width needed to provide adequate storm protection, and the maximum possible beach width that could be constructed while ensuring that no damage would be sustained by valuable nearshore resources.
The beach was then reconstructed to meet those specifications and has been monitored ever since, with additional restoration projects launched whenever the beach width approaches the minimum acceptable width.
Through these longtime efforts, an effective buffer between the ocean and upland structures has been maintained, as has an important habitat for nesting sea turtles, shore birds, and other wildlife.
Intensive monitoring of all environmental aspects – including offshore and submerged wildlife and habitats – ensures that restoration activities don’t negatively impact the valuable habitats in the area.
Since the start of this project, oceanfront properties in the area have been protected from hurricane impact through multiple hurricanes and severe nor’easter storms.
Planted dunes trap windblown sand, effectively building themselves higher and wider to provide an even more substantial barrier between the water and land.