A Bold Step Toward Coastal Resilience in Sarasota
The shores of Lido Beach are set to receive a major boost in protection and preservation, thanks to a vital renourishment project launching in late 2025. Backed by a $12 million federal investment, the City of Sarasota, in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Sarasota County, will restore over a mile of the beach’s eroded shoreline—marking the second major renourishment effort under a long-term agreement established in 2021.
A Response to Nature’s Wear
Over the past several years, Lido Beach has faced accelerated erosion caused by a series of hurricanes and tropical weather events. This project, which will place between 200,000 and 300,000 cubic yards of sand sourced locally from New Pass, aims to stabilize 1.2 miles of shoreline and reduce vulnerability to future storm surge and sea level rise.
Mayor Liz Alpert underscored the importance of the effort:
“The renourishment of Lido Beach will not only improve the area for residents and visitors but also increase the resiliency of our coastal community.”
Enhancing Resilience with Natural Solutions
Beyond the sand replenishment, a new vegetative dune system will be constructed south of the Lido Beach Pavilion beginning in late 2026. This natural buffer will serve as a secondary line of defense against erosion and help restore the natural dune habitat that is crucial for wildlife and long-term coastal stability. The full dune system is expected to be complete by spring 2027.
The project was carefully timed to avoid disrupting sensitive ecosystems. By coordinating with Mote Marine Laboratory and the Sarasota Audubon Society, city planners ensured that construction would take place outside of sea turtle and shorebird nesting seasons, which conclude October 31.
Keeping Access Open, With Minimal Disruption
Despite the scale of this project, Lido Beach will remain open throughout the construction period. Some beach sections may be temporarily closed for safety during active renourishment, but clear signage and communication efforts will help the public stay informed.
City Engineer Nikesh Patel emphasized the significance of this initiative:
“This project exemplifies a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to shoreline resilience grounded in long-term planning, scientific insight, and meaningful collaboration with our community.”
A Unified Commitment to the Coast
The success of this project is a result of coordinated efforts at all levels of government. The City of Sarasota extended its appreciation to U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, U.S. Rep. Greg Steube, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the residents of Lido Key for their continued advocacy and support.
With construction slated to begin in late 2025 and final elements completed by 2027, the Lido Beach Renourishment Project stands as a cornerstone in Sarasota’s broader climate resiliency strategy—protecting one of the region’s most beloved natural treasures for generations to come.
Learn more and stay up to date on the Lido Beach Renourishment Project:
👉 City of Sarasota Project Page
