Upham Beach project on hold

The Upham Beach stabilization project has been temporarily suspended due to projected rough winter weather. Two of the four planned rock T-groin structures to slow erosion of the beach have been completed since the project started in August.

The contractor will reassess the weather in late January or early February to determine when they can resume the project. A fenced staging area containing stored materials for constructing the northern two rock groin structures will remain at the site. All other areas of Upham beach will be open to the public until the contractor returns to finish the project.

Once work resumes in 2018, the contractor estimates it will take an additional three to four months to complete the project. Upon resuming work, the project area restricted from public access will largely be isolated to the north end of the beach. Access to the remainder of Upham Beach will be open to the public including unobstructed access to beaches to the south. Construction schedule updates can be viewed by visiting www.pinellascounty.org/environment/coastalMngmt/Upham_Beach_Stabilization_Project.htm.

Pinellas County’s Environmental Management Division—a division of Public Works—is responsible for coastal management projects, including beach nourishment and stabilization projects. These projects align with the County’s strategic goal of practicing superior environmental stewardship by preserving our beaches, and protecting and improving our water quality.

For more information about Pinellas County Public Works and beach stabilization and nourishment projects, visit www.pinellascounty.org/publicworks.