Lee County Commissioners voted Tuesday to accept a nearly $12 million grant agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) for a project to add sand to 1.1 miles of beach within Lovers Key State Park. The grant includes nearly $10 million in funding from FDEP and about $2 million in local funding from tourist development tax receipts on short-term lodging. The beach at Lovers Key State Park consistently ranks among Florida’s best, according to prominent travel publications. However, the project area has been designated by FDEP as critically eroded. The most recent nourishment was completed in 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 anticipated. Construction is anticipated for late 2022 or 2023, pending completion of permitting and bidding. Keeping beaches looking good and functioning well is a necessity in Southwest Florida. To read the Gulfshore Business story on beach renourishment, click here.