Pinellas County Commissioner Kathleen Peters led a delegation of local officials to Washington, D.C., to advocate for beach nourishment projects in the wake of a devastating 2024 hurricane season. Peters has been working tirelessly to restore federally funded beach nourishment along Pinellas County’s Gulf Coast, including discussions with the White House and a letter to President Donald Trump. The delegation met with key officials, including U.S. Sen. Rick Scott and U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, to push for relief on easement language that is currently causing delays in necessary projects on Sand Key, Treasure Island, and Long Key.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is requiring all property owners to sign over easements for public access before sand can be placed for beach nourishment. The county has not reached the 100% participation threshold, with 170 easement documents remaining unsigned as of the deadline. Without all easements signed, the Army Corps cannot proceed with the projects, which are critical for protecting infrastructure, the economy, and the way of life in Pinellas County.
Beach nourishment is not only important for recreation but also serves as a crucial storm mitigation tool, preventing erosion and protecting coastal areas from storm damage. The Army Corps is taking a hard-line stance on the easement policy to ensure effective and comprehensive nourishment projects. Failure to obtain all easements could result in incomplete projects and leave private properties vulnerable to erosion in the future.
Federal cost share for beach nourishment projects is typically 65%, with periodic projects taking place on Pinellas beaches for decades. Continued advocacy from federal partners is crucial to securing relief and ensuring the success of beach nourishment projects in Pinellas County.
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