For the first time since 2018, Pinellas County has begun beach renourishment along its barrier islands that will help strengthen the coast against future storms.
But the county will proceed without financial support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which now requires all beachfront property owners to grant ongoing public access to their property. The Army Corps historically picked up 65% of the cost.
There has been resistance among residents, and only 80% of property owners have complied with temporary agreements. So, for the first time, the county is paying the entire bill: $125.7 million…