The Estero Island Beach Sand Truck Haul project is scheduled to start on February 13, 2024. The project’s goal is to replenish the beach’s sand levels, impacted by Hurricane Ian. The sand, from Stewart Mine in Immokalee, will be transported and distributed across Fort Myers Beach, with a total of 112,000 tons expected to be used.
The initial focus of the project will be South Estero Island and Carlos Pointe Beach. The objective is to fill in scours and restore the beach’s elevation to its state before Hurricane Ian. The project will then proceed North, where the sand berm will be repaired, and additional scours filled.
The Florida Department of Emergency Management funds the project, with funds allocated by the Florida Legislature. The operation will require 50 to 200 trucks delivering sand on weekdays and is expected to last three months.
Motorists and pedestrians are encouraged to be careful near the construction areas on Estero Boulevard and the beach. The project may cause disruption, but the benefits of beach restoration are considered to outweigh the temporary inconvenience.