Town Council reviews $48.8M beach renourishment plan and projects for FY26

The Town Council of Hilton Head Island convened on May 13, 2025, for a budget workshop focused on the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for the fiscal year 2026. The meeting aimed to outline funding allocations across various program areas, with a significant emphasis on beach renourishment.

The workshop began with a brief overview of the CIP, which is divided into eight program areas, including beach maintenance and land acquisition. Council members were informed that the total budget for the CIP is approximately $77.7 million, with over 51% allocated to beach-related projects, amounting to $48.8 million. Of this, an estimated $47.5 million is earmarked specifically for beach renourishment efforts.

During the presentation, it was highlighted that the beach program funding not only supports renourishment but also covers the maintenance and repair of seven beach parks. This includes essential capital items such as restrooms, signage, parking lots, and trash management. The council discussed the importance of ongoing monitoring of beach conditions, particularly after storms, to gather data on sand loss or gain. This information is crucial for planning future renourishment projects.

The council also noted that additional workshops are scheduled to provide a deeper dive into specific projects, with a dedicated session on the CIP planned for July. This will allow for further discussion and clarification on budget priorities and project timelines.

In conclusion, the workshop underscored the town's commitment to maintaining its beaches and parks while preparing for future environmental challenges. The next steps involve continued discussions and planning to ensure effective use of the allocated funds for the benefit of the community.