Public backs Weeki Wachee Preserve Phase 1 grant pitch; county seeks federal/state funds for parking, bridge and ADA access

Hernando County officials presented Phase 1 of the Weeki Wachee Preserve project and sought public comment to support grant applications, including federal/state conservation funding. County Community Services Director Chris Lindsbeck described a concept that would improve the beach parking lot, add a pedestrian bridge over a man‑made canal and build a short walking trail with restroom and kiosk.

"Phase 1 in a nutshell is improving the parking lot and getting another access point to the Weeki Wachee Preserve," Community Services Director Chris Lindsbeck said, explaining that the county is pursuing Land & Water Conservation Fund and other grant opportunities to help fund the $1.5 million project.

Several residents and business operators from Hernando Beach and the coastal area spoke in support during the hearing. "This will allow handicap access and parking right there where they can access the lakes without having to walk a mile," said Diane Greenwell, who urged grant funding rather than reliance on local taxpayer dollars. Business leaders said better infrastructure would improve public safety, broaden year‑round visitation and help local tourism businesses.

County grant staff said the meeting fulfills the public‑comment requirement for grant applications and will be used as part of the documentation package; the county will pursue multiple funding sources and return to the commission for additional public input as project phases advance.

What happens next: county grant staff will finalize applications and continue design work; public comment collected at this meeting will be used to satisfy grant program requirements and can be referenced during later phases.