Beach erosion remains a concern on Manasota Key

Strong winds and rough seas are causing erosion issues on Manasota Key, an issue people living along the beach are familiar with.

Winds were whipping through the area at 30 to 40 mph.

Erosion is a huge concern, especially after 2016's storms Colin and Hermine. The water damage due to those events was so severe that several buildings were condemned.

Sea walls are being built along the coast, but the walls are only a short-term fix. The county is currently working with people affected to draft a beach restoration plan.

The main issue holding the project back is the cost, which could be close to $30 million. The county is trying to get federal funding while the people are working to determine how much they are willing to spend to save the beaches.

Both Pratte and Fischer question why the restoration project, which may be funded by both the county and residents, would be so costly.