South Siesta Beach Repair Project is Underway

April 26, 2023 – Sarasota

Work on the South Siesta Beach Repair project, which includes the placement of approximately 92,000 cubic yards of beach-compatible sand, began April 24, and is anticipated through June 30

During this time, visitors can expect occasional limited access to parking areas or beach access points and the potential for traffic delays or lane shifts. There’s increased signage in the project area, and community members are asked to pay attention to the signage and allow for additional drive time.

The project is to repair the beach erosion caused by Hurricane Hermine in 2016 which erased the renourishment of South Siesta and Turtle Beach that occurred earlier that year. The erosion reduced the volume of sand along the beach and natural habitat.
“The South Siesta Beach repair project will add sand to the shoreline, providing improved storm protection to the upland properties and a wider beach for recreation and wildlife use, such as sea turtle and shorebird nesting,” said Capital Project Director Carolyn Eastwood. “Beach repair projects such as this help build resiliency and ensure our public beaches remain viable for residents and visitors.”

Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved the use of upland-sourced sand to be delivered by way of approximately 50 to 60 trucks making two trips daily to South Siesta and Turtle Beach.

The county’s Florida Department of Environmental Protection permit modification allows beach nourishment work to proceed during sea turtle nesting season under specific conditions.

“Sarasota County is committed to preserving natural environments and wildlife habitat. With the help of our conservation partners, Mote Marine Aquarium and the Sarasota Audubon Society, trained professionals are on the beach daily to ensure all the necessary precautions are in place for a successful project constructed consistent with the applicable wildlife regulations,” said Planning and Development Services Environmental Protection Division Manager Rachel Herman.

The county is working with a contracted coastal engineering firm to engage Mote Marine Laboratory and Sarasota Audubon Society for daily shorebird and sea turtle monitoring services in the project area once nesting season starts.

The county secured funding through a FEMA and FDEM grant for this project and awarded the contract to Ahtna Marine & Construction Company in an amount not to exceed $8,282,283.10. The county’s contribution to the project costs is provided by the Tourist Development Tax Beach Renourishment fund.

For the safety of residents and visitors, beach access points may be closed during construction. To find other beach locations visit scgov.net.

For additional project information, visit scgov.net/beachrepair or call 311.