Vero Beach has established a five-person committee to help rebuild the boardwalk at Humiston Beach, which Hurricane Nicole destroyed four years ago. The city currently has $3.1 million raised toward the $4.7 million project cost, leaving a $1.6 million funding gap that the new committee will work to close through donor outreach and fundraising.
Vero Beach Councilmember John Carroll said beach use has dropped significantly since the boardwalk's destruction. The committee will develop a fundraising plan and ensure appropriate recognition for donors who have already contributed to the project. The city plans to accept project bids next week.
Residents including Calista Littleton said they have been waiting to restore normal beach access at the site. Doris DeAngelis said her aunt, who uses a walker, now has only a small area to enjoy the beach due to limited access without the boardwalk.
If the timeline holds, the city hopes to begin construction in November and complete a new boardwalk by April. DeAngelis said her aunt Mina, who will turn 105 and a half years old, would love to see the boardwalk return.