After waiting until the last minute for the federal government to provide some relief, Pinellas County has dedicated $130.7 million to repair critically eroded beaches.
County commissioners somberly approved the massive appropriation Tuesday. Local legislators were unable to effectuate changes to stringent federal easement requirements, despite previous optimism.
The commission subsequently awarded $125.7 million to Weeks Marine Inc., the only responsive and responsible bidder. The New Jersey-based contractor will renourish and build dunes on portions of Sand Key, Treasure Island and Long Key…