Fort Myers Beach Makes a Comeback: $60M Sand Project Brings New Life After Hurricane

Workers just finished a massive $60 million revitalization at Fort Myers Beach, pumping in fresh sand to repair Hurricane Ian's damage. The work added dunes and safety measures along the water's edge.

"We've got about $60 million worth of new sand on the beach. The beaches are beautiful," said Jim Atterholt, Vice Mayor of Fort Myers Beach, according to WINK News.

Yellow stakes and ropes now mark the fresh dunes. These markers shield both the shore and its wild creatures, while giving the island better protection when storms hit.

Local residents paint a stark picture of the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. "Everything was covered in sand," said Teresa Hockmeyer, who lives in Fort Myers. "It was eerie because my husband and I came down here one day and there was no one on this beach, but he and I."

The scene was bleak at first. "There was no vegetation. There were many No Trespassing signs," Angie Delima recalled. "It just didn't feel welcoming. Didn't feel at home."

This cleanup marks big progress. "The dunes are a great idea, a great concept," Delima added. "I hope that they do their job and bring back what makes this place special."

Beach-goers now see big changes. Hockmeyer beamed, "They've brought in Gulf sand to fix up the beach. It shines brighter than before." She paused, then smiled. "The bad times are behind us now — seeing this place spring back to life puts a smile on everyone's face."

The Vice Mayor sees good signs ahead. "The future of Fort Myers Beach is very bright," Atterholt said. "With that $60 million beach work done, visitors are rushing back to our shores."