Atlantic Beach approves five federal dune walkovers, delays two after resident opposition

Mayor Ford and commissioners voted on Sept. 28 to proceed with five of seven federally supported dune walkovers while pausing plans at 11th and 14th Streets after residents raised ecological and access concerns.

Resident Steve Abress, who spoke for neighbors near 14th Street, told the commission: "These dunes have proven over and over again that they do what they're designed to do," arguing that an elevated walkover "would completely transform and industrialize the look of our small beach." City engineer Steve Swan said the appropriation was procured and the preliminary design is complete; most of the project is fully federally funded and one access (5th Street) is a 50/50 match, and he told the commission there is some flexibility in schedule and design if the commission chooses to shift or defer specific accesses.

Commissioner Grant moved to continue the project with the exception of the 11th and 14th Street access points; the motion carried. The commission directed staff to consult with the grant administrator about changing locations or timing and to return with options. Mayor Ford said pausing the two contested accesses both responds to residents and still allows the city to take advantage of available federal funds.

The decision leaves in place walkovers at the other named access points; staff said final construction details, ADA compliance and maintenance plans will be refined in the design and bid phases and reported back to the commission.