Pensacola Beach Celebrates Completion of Major Beach Nourishment Project

PENSACOLA BEACH, Fla. – (June 1, 2026) – The Santa Rosa Island Authority (SRIA), Escambia County, and project partners will celebrate the successful completion of the Pensacola Beach Nourishment Project during a special ceremony on Wednesday, June 10, at 3:30 p.m., recognizing one of the most significant coastal restoration efforts undertaken on Santa Rosa Island in recent years.

The project, which began in March, restored and strengthened 8.1 miles of Gulf shoreline along Pensacola Beach through the placement of 1.5 million cubic yards of sand. The effort was undertaken to help combat erosion, improve storm resiliency, protect critical infrastructure, and preserve one of Escambia County’s most valuable environmental and economic assets.

The completed project represents a major investment in the long-term protection and sustainability of Pensacola Beach as both a coastal community and one of America’s premier tourism destinations. Funding for the project was made possible through a partnership between the Santa Rosa Island Authority, Escambia County, and the Escambia County Tourist Development Council, which collectively contributed more than $16 million in local funding. Combined with matching funds from the State of Florida, the total investment in the project reached approximately $35 million.

“Healthy beaches are essential to the future of Pensacola Beach,” said Mike Burns, Executive Director of the Santa Rosa Island Authority. “This project strengthens our shoreline, enhances storm protection, supports wildlife habitat, and helps ensure Pensacola Beach remains a vibrant destination for residents and visitors for years to come.”

Pensacola Beach continues to serve as the economic engine for Escambia County tourism. More than 2.5 million visitors travel to the area annually, generating more than $1.3 billion in direct visitor spending and contributing more than $2 billion in total economic impact throughout the county.

Officials noted that beach nourishment remains an important long-term coastal management strategy. Because barrier islands are naturally dynamic systems, periodic nourishment projects are necessary to maintain healthy shorelines and provide continued protection for coastal communities.

The Santa Rosa Island Authority extends its appreciation to Escambia County, Foth Engineering, Manson Construction, our state and local partners, and the residents, businesses, and visitors who supported the project throughout construction.

The June 10 ceremony will provide an opportunity to recognize the successful completion of the project and highlight its benefits for coastal resiliency, environmental stewardship, tourism, and the long-term future of Pensacola Beach.

“One of the things that makes Pensacola Beach special is how much people care about it,” said Burns. “Whether you’re a resident, a business owner, or someone who returns year after year for vacation, this beach means something to you. We appreciate the patience and support shown throughout this project, and we’re proud to celebrate a milestone that helps preserve this incredible beach for everyone who enjoys it.”

MEDIA EVENT DETAILS

WHAT:

Pensacola Beach Nourishment Project Completion Ceremony

WHEN:

Wednesday, June 10, 2026
3:30 p.m.

WHERE:

Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach

WHO:

Speakers to include:

• Escambia County Commissioner Ashlee Hofberger
• Jason Nicholson, Tourist Development Advisory Council
• Mike Burns, Executive Director, Santa Rosa Island Authority
• Krista Egan, Senior Coastal Engineer
• Representatives from project engineering and construction teams

RSVP:

Media is requested to RSVP to Katie King at katie@ewbullock.com no later than noon on Tuesday, June 9.

About the Santa Rosa Island Authority

Pensacola Beach is owned by Escambia County, Fla., and is under the direction of the Santa Rosa Island Authority (SRIA). The SRIA was created by the Florida legislature in 1947 under Chapter 24500. The SRIA does not receive tax support from the taxpayers of the county. It is fully funded from lease fees collected from business and residences on the beach. The Island Authority board is made up of six members; five are named by members of the Escambia County Board of Commissioners whose term is the same as the commissioner who appointed them. Registered voters on Pensacola Beach elect the sixth member. The elected member’s term is two years.