Crews are working to clear massive piles of sand from beach access points along Gulfshore Boulevard after back-to-back hurricanes Helene and Milton.
At the beach access of Gulfshore Boulevard South and 17th Avenue South, workers are removing sand that buried the road. Maria Bejerano, owner of Speedy Trucking, said her team has been busy with recovery efforts and was just at the same spot two weeks ago.
"Yeah, two weeks ago with Helene. And before that? Two years ago with Ian," Bejerano said.
The city of Naples, along with private companies, has been operating around the clock to remove sand and debris. Front-end loaders lined Gulfshore Boulevard on Monday, hauling sand back to the shoreline.
Despite it being difficult to reach the beaches right now, many people were still out enjoying the sun and water.
“Well, we love the beach so much. And it finally cleared up enough after the storm to come out. So we brought our grandson, and we just love it,” said Lynn Illiano.
However, the Florida Department of Health issued a swim advisory for all Collier County beaches, warning that dangerous bacteria, including vibrio, may be present in the water. Many beachgoers were unaware of the advisory.
“I did not know that. It is not on the news anywhere. We're a little surprised. So we appreciate you telling us. And we will not be swimming in the ocean today,” Illiano said.
City officials are asking the public to avoid the beaches and areas still covered in sand so crews can work safely and quickly.