Share this @internewscast.com
CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla. (WFLA) – An overhaul is underway at the Clearwater Beach Marina after last year’s hurricanes caused damage.
Kelly Peterich, an engineer with the City of Clearwater, said last year’s hurricanes emphasized the importance of fortifying the facility.
“Given the age and condition, we knew a complete overhaul of the beach marina would be necessary. We’ve been planning this renovation since 2021,” Peterich explained.
The use of construction and heavy machinery is part of a $43 million initiative. The project involves raising the seawall by over a foot and replacing a stationary fuel building with a floating one that can move with the storm surge, reaching up to 12 feet.
- Overhaul at Clearwater Beach Marina fortifies facility against storms
- Pinellas sheriff: Daughter was ‘fed up’ with father when she shot him during custody exchange
- Pinellas man blames error on state report for uptick in car insurance rates
Additionally, crews are changing out materials.
“We’re going to use a product that’s made out of aluminum so it will actually float during the storms,” Peterich said.
Repairs are also underway at the harbor marina, which sustained $3 million to $6 million in flood damage.
“We needed to replace all the damaged sheetrock, so we are now addressing that, alongside repairing all the restrooms. Our goal is to finish this within 8-10 weeks,” stated Peterich.
Peterich said work at the beach marina is expected to be complete by next summer.
He told 8 On Your Side the city is assessing Pier 60 to determine plans for repairs.