Emergency Lido Beach erosion project could begin this weekend

Sarasota shoreline has receded 15 feet after several storms.

An emergency project to rebuild parts of severely eroded Lido Beach could begin as early as this weekend.

Crews have already begun staging equipment at Lido Beach in preparation to use 150,000 to 200,000 cubic yards of sand from New Pass to rebuild the shoreline that officials say has lost an estimated 15 feet in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma last September and Subtropical Storm Alberto in May, prompting City Manager Tom Barwin to declare a state of emergency. The project will take approximately 90 days to complete, with the schedule depending on weather and other variables.

“Lido Beach has long been at a critical point of erosion and significant danger,” Barwin said in a statement on Wednesday. “We issued the state of emergency in recognition of the serious threats that just one more storm could pose for our environment, our local economy, properties and infrastructure on Lido Key and the quality of life that we all enjoy. We eagerly await both this short-term renourishment and our long-term plan to protect our shoreline and restore Lido Beach to its natural beauty.”

The beach will remain open through the duration of the project. Beachgoers are advised to use caution and stay aware of active work zones and any equipment operating in the area, city officials said.