Fort Myers Beach project aims for completion in 60 days, says manager

FORT MYERS BEACH - Fort Myers Beach is nearing the completion of its massive beach renourishment project, with crews adding the final touches to the shoreline.

Nearly one million cubic yards of sand have been pumped onto the beach to protect homes and businesses. The project is 95% complete, said officials.

Visitors like Margaret O'Connell and Karen Ayres are thrilled with the changes.

"Delighted with it, especially, you know, there's not crowded. It can never get crowded. It's so big," said O'Connell.

Ayres added, "Oh absolutely couldn't be happier."

Environmental Projects Manager Chadd Chustz explained that the goal is to have the beach ready before hurricane season.

"We're just filling in few final touches, getting some scours, and then also rebuilding some dens that got washed away by the recent storms," said Chustz.

The project is expected to take 45 to 60 days.

"I know the engineer was working on the exact times, I believe, no longer than a couple months. It's well worth it that we try and get the beach as good as possible and ready for the next hurricane season," said Chustz.

Meanwhile, some beachgoers have noticed red algae washing up along parts of the shoreline.

Chustz mentioned, "We're coming up on a new moon, and it'll probably float most of that stuff away. So just try not to get too excited about it."

Beachgoers are advised to avoid the red algae in case of hidden debris. The final phase of the project will involve trucks bringing more sand to confined areas of the beach to ensure protection against future hurricanes.