JACKSONVILLE, Fla — Duval County’s coastlines are no stranger to taking a beating during hurricanes and tropical storms.
However, now, at the turn of the new year, the Army Corps of Engineers is set to get a $32.4 million project underway to protect and rebuild the coastlines of Jacksonville, Atlantic, and Neptune beach.
>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<
Overall, it serves as a project that Captain Rob Emahiser with Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue told Action News Jax will help first responders save lives in the long run.
“The sand there is so narrow at high tide, we can’t get on the beach to drive. If someone needs our help, we’re going to be taking the street to the nearest access. So for us, once that gets wider, it’ll be a huge help,” Captain Emahiser told Action News Jax on Sunday.
[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]
The over $32 million project will also work to protect from storm surge those who call the Duval County coastline home, while giving tourists like Jessica Shesko a reason to come back.
“Knowing that a community has the reinforcements to you know, secure these buildings, the beaches, keep everybody safe is really comforting
[SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter]
“Knowing that a community has the reinforcements to you know, secure these buildings, the beaches, keep everybody safe is really comforting for visitors. And I’m sure the local community as well,” said Shesko.
Those interested in learning more about the incoming renourishment project or wanting to learn more about similar projects can do so by clicking here.
Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.