Flagler County has received approval for $4.7 million in FEMA Category G funding related to Hurricanes Ian and Nicole, marking a major step forward in the county’s long-term coastal recovery and resilience efforts.
The award will serve as a significant portion of the funding needed for the Flagler Reach 2 beach restoration project, which stretches from North 7th Street in Flagler Beach to Varn Park. Construction is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2026. The funding followed sustained coordination with federal partners and direct assistance from Congressman Randy Fine, whose support helped expedite FEMA’s review and final authorization.
“Strong beaches mean strong communities, protecting our homes, our economy, and our way of life,” Congressman Fine said. “I thank the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners for their partnership and collaboration. Together – within two weeks of reaching out to FEMA – we secured more than $4.7 million in long-awaited federal funding for beach sand replenishment projects. We are pursuing additional funding to continue renourishing our beaches.”
Category G funding supports permanent work to repair and restore public infrastructure damaged during federally declared disasters. For Flagler County, the impacts of Hurricanes Ian and Nicole accelerated erosion and compromised dune systems along the shoreline, underscoring the urgency of long-term stabilization efforts.
“We are grateful for Congressman Fine’s engagement and advocacy on behalf of Flagler County,” said County Commission Chair Leann Pennington. “This award strengthens our ability to restore and protect one of our community’s most vulnerable and valued assets, our coastline.”
The Reach 2 project is one of the county’s highest priority coastal segments. The work will reinforce dune structures, enhance storm protection, and improve the overall resilience of the shoreline. The project is currently in design and permitting with construction anticipated to begin in mid-2026.
“These funds will repair damage from Hurricanes Ian and Nicole and strengthen our coastline ahead of the next hurricane season,” said Fine. “I’m proud to support Flagler County in partnership with the County Commission and will continue fighting for our residents in Congress.”
“This funding is a critical piece of the overall financial plan for Reach 2,” said County Administrator Heidi Petito. “It allows us to move forward with confidence as we prepare for construction and continue securing the remaining resources needed.”
Flagler County continues to work closely with state and federal partners to advance coastal restoration initiatives that safeguard residents, infrastructure, and the local economy.
