PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla.– Pinellas County has been authorized by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to start the complete replenishment of Pass-a-Grille Beach. Sand placement will commence once the contractor finishes mobilizing equipment and setting up environmental safeguards.
In June, approximately 10,000 to 15,000 cubic yards of sand were placed on the south end of Pass-a-Grille as part of the completed Grand Canal dredging project.
The contractor will now move the dredge vessel to Pass-a-Grille inlet to pipe an additional 140,000 cubic yards of sand to the rest of the beach, covering the area from 1st Avenue to 22nd Avenue.
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This nourishment project is essential as Pass-a-Grille is on a 10-year replenishment cycle and was due for sand this year. Such projects aim to replace sand lost due to storms and erosion, maintaining the beautiful beaches that contribute significantly to the county’s tourism industry and provide a natural barrier against storm surges.
Due to delays in federal nourishment projects along the Pinellas County coast, this project is being funded by hotel bed tax dollars and state grants.
Once construction is in full swing, dredging will occur 24/7, potentially causing some light and noise disturbances at night. This is necessary to complete the project efficiently.
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The first phase, focusing on the area south of Paradise Grille, is expected to be finished by late August. The second phase, north of the concession building, should be completed by late October, weather permitting.
Residents and visitors are advised to avoid the construction zone, and boaters should steer clear of the dredge vessel and piping. Updates on beach access points can be found on the interactive project map.
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