The Lee County Board of County Commissioners has accepted a $10 million grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to add new sand to 1.1 miles of beach at Lovers Key State Park. The project also includes $2 million in local funding from the tourist development tax fund.
The project area has been designated by FDEP as critically eroded. The most recent nourishment at Lovers Key was December 2014.
Monitoring indicates that the project continues to provide storm protection, environmental benefits such as sea turtle nesting and recreational opportunities, but is eroding over time as expected.
Construction is anticipated for late 2022 or 2023 pending completion of permitting and bidding.