Posted on August 11, 2025
Crews in Fort Myers Beach are nearing the completion of a significant beach nourishment project, just in time for the peak hurricane season.
As the heavy machinery prepares to move out, a new challenge emerges: protecting sea turtles and their hatchlings.
The project, which extends south toward Newton Park, has less than 2,000 feet of shoreline left to build. Crews expect to finish pumping sand by mid-August and have all equipment off the beach by the end of the month.
The beach nourishment project was originally expected to be completed over a year ago, but unforeseen weather, logistical issues, and additional work delayed its progress. Once finished, the beach will be wider and higher, providing more space for both people and wildlife.
However, the expanded shoreline has introduced a new issue. Increased visibility of lights from homes, job sites, and side streets disorients turtle hatchlings, leading them away from the Gulf.
“It’s tough because we have the beachfront property owners now. Everything’s so wide open,” said Chadd Chustz, Environmental Projects Manager. “It’s two and three lots into the side streets. So a lot of light is getting down to the beach, and that’s affecting the hatchlings. They’re going the wrong way. So we are again asking people to minimize their lights, convert to the proper lighting.”
Turtle season continues through October, and the town is urging everyone to help protect the turtles. Once the equipment is cleared, Fort Myers Beach will not only have a stronger shoreline but also a safer habitat for sea turtles.
