Posted on June 8, 2026
TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. — City leaders say the future of Tybee Island’s beach is now tied to what happens in Washington.
Tybee Island lost out on the $12 million it typically gets for beach renourishment. The city manager says beach renourishment is not optional, but central to the island’s survival.
“One, it is our economy,” said Bret Bell, Tybee Island city manager. “Number two, it is our first line of defense against storms, including hurricanes, really. And number three, it’s critical habitat for sea turtles.”
The city is working with Sen. Jon Ossoff’s office on a spending request and backing a national “Yes to Beaches” campaign to fully fund the federal nourishment program.
For now, Tybee’s next steps depend on what Congress does next.
