Pinellas County Secures New Federal Beach Funding

Pinellas County and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers signed an amended Project Cooperation Agreement on May 31, 2026, opening new pathways for federal funding of beach nourishment projects.

The amendment removes several barriers that previously complicated federal support. Property owners no longer must grant permanent easements for beach nourishment work. Public access provisions are no longer required in easement agreements. Local customary use ordinances can now satisfy some federal cost-sharing requirements, and the county has more flexibility in easement language when negotiating with property owners.

Assistant Secretary of the Army Adam Telle, U.S. Representative Anna Paulina Luna, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Deputy Commanding General Maj. Gen. Jason Kelly attended the signing. Pinellas County Board Chair Dave Eggers and Commissioners Kathleen Peters, Brian Scott, and Chris Latvala represented the county.