Sarasota Launched Lido Beach Dune Restoration Project

The $12 million federally funded effort aims to bolster shorelines and protect local property from storm surges.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Safety

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a section of newly formed sandy dunes with native coastal vegetation along a shoreline. — Sarasota has begun a $12 million restoration project at Lido Beach, installing dunes and native vegetation to protect coastal property from future storm surges. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Sarasota has officially begun a $12 million project to restore dunes along more than a mile of Lido Beach. The initiative aims to provide a critical buffer against storm surge and protect upland property near Ben Franklin Drive.

Why it matters

By constructing 2 to 2.5-foot dunes and planting native vegetation, the city seeks to combat chronic erosion and mitigate future damage to coastal infrastructure. This project serves as a key defense mechanism for the local community against severe weather events.

The restoration spans a 1.2-mile stretch of shoreline utilizing 3,000 cubic yards of sand sourced from New Pass. The project is expected to reach completion within the next 60 days.

The players

City of Sarasota

The local municipal government is responsible for managing coastal maintenance and public infrastructure projects.

Sarasota County

This regional government entity works in conjunction with municipal agencies to manage land use and environmental resources.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

This federal agency provides engineering expertise and funding oversight for large-scale coastal protection projects.

The details

Workers are placing sand along the shoreline to build dunes that will stand 2 to 2.5 feet tall. Native vegetation will be planted throughout the site to anchor the sediment and minimize sand loss over time.

September 21, 2026: The dune restoration project officially began.
2021: The last beach renourishment project was completed.
Next 60 days: The estimated duration for construction and planting activities.

Seasonal Patterns

This project follows the pattern set by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' civil works shoreline protection program for federally funded coastal restoration. It represents a recurring cycle of maintenance needed to preserve shorelines compared to the 2021 baseline.

Residents and visitors should remain alert to construction crews and equipment operating along the 1.2-mile stretch of Lido Beach. The public is advised to avoid restricted areas to allow for the planting of native vegetation and sand stabilization.

The takeaway

Ongoing maintenance is essential for coastal communities facing high rates of erosion and storm threats. Proactive measures like dune restoration help minimize future property losses and protect vital infrastructure along the shoreline.