Flagler County backs Army Corps feasibility study for Back Bay shoreline; county to provide local match

Flagler County commissioners authorized a letter of intent Jan. 12 supporting the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District’s request for federal funding to perform a Back Bay and shoreline coastal storm risk‑management feasibility study covering most of Flagler County’s shoreline (excluding 2.5 miles in Flagler Beach).

County Engineer Hamid Tabasian briefed the board: "This type of study typically costs about $3,000,000 over 3 years" and requires a 50% non‑federal match; Tabasian outlined an anticipated local funding profile and timeline for FY28 funding consideration by the Corps.

"The study would determine what, if any, engineered beach, dune or shoreline improvements are feasible and would provide a basis for securing additional federal funding," Tabasian said. (Hamid Tabasian, County Engineer.)

Commissioners discussed local matching obligations, the study's use for future project funding requests, and timing; the board voted to send the letter of intent in support of the Corps' funding submittal.

Why it matters: a Corps feasibility study is typically the first step toward major shoreline projects that can reduce coastal storm risk; local matching requirements and subsequent project costs would need to be budgeted and coordinated with state and local partners.

Next steps: staff will prepare the authorized letter of intent for the Corps and track the Corps' FY28 budget process; the county will identify possible local funding sources to meet the match if the project advances.