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County chooses hybrid boardwalk design for Englewood Beach to balance user experience and FEMA permitting
Summary
After a staff presentation of five design alternatives and cost estimates, Charlotte County commissioners directed staff to design Option 3 — limited boardwalk connectivity with ADA ramping — to improve resiliency and maximize FEMA reimbursement prospects while preserving some user views. The board emphasized modular planning so elements can be scaled down during construction.
Charlotte County commissioners on Nov. 25 directed staff to advance a hybrid design for the Inglewood Beach boardwalk and walkovers that county staff and a consultant recommended as the best balance among resiliency, permitting risk and user experience.
Tommy Scott, community services director, presented five alternatives with order‑of‑magnitude cost estimates ranging from about $172,000 (no boardwalk, natural access) to roughly $2.15 million (full‑footprint, elevated rebuild). Staff and the consultant recommended Alternative 3 — limited boardwalk connectivity with four walkovers, raised elevation (1–4 feet) and an ADA ramp to restroom access — because it reduces the footprint on the dune system while keeping key viewing areas and improving FEMA‑compliance and long‑term resilience.
Scott said the hybrid approach would lower permitting risk under current Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL) rules and reduce maintenance exposure. He told commissioners the recommended option “gives the dune protections, is saving costs and maintenance, is permit feasible and is more resilient.” Commissioners debated whether to choose the lower‑cost Option 4 (walkovers only) but ultimately directed staff to design Option 3 and to present modular costings so the board can remove boardwalk sections later if necessary.
Commissioners noted FEMA reimbursement is not guaranteed; Tommy Scott confirmed the county has completed damage assessments but does not have an obligation committed by FEMA. Commissioner Constance urged staff to consider a modular design and seek field permits where possible to shorten permitting timelines. Commissioner Deutsch favored Option 4 for cost and permitting certainty but supported the board’s compromise to move forward with the consultant’s recommendation in a modular design.
The direction to design Option 3 was unanimous. Staff estimates design and permitting will likely take more than a year; construction timing will depend on permitting and FEMA obligation status.
Sources: staff presentation and slide packet by Tommy Scott; board discussion and vote.
