TIGERTAIL LAGOON/SAND DOLLAR ISLAND RESTORATION UPDATE

In August 2024 Tropical Storm Debby damaged the berm that was  constructed as part of the 2023 Tigertail Lagoon/Sand Dollar Island Ecosystem Restoration  Project. The project engineers have prepared substantive repair plans using the maintenance  budget that was approved by Collier County and the Hideaway Tax District. The maintenance  work is scheduled to begin at the conclusion of turtle nesting season which ends October 31.  

In early 2024, the City worked with Collier County to divide the cost of ongoing maintenance of  the berm. Approximately $186,000 per year will be funded by the Hideaway Tax District and  $175,000 will be funded by Collier County Tourist Development Taxes. City of Marco Island tax  dollars are not being used for this project or the ongoing maintenance.  

In 2023, the ecosystem restoration project was completed which included restoration of the  collapsing part of the island and lagoon using approximately 500,000 cubic years of sand to  construct a berm. The purpose of the berm is to act as a natural shield to protect the lagoon  and its habitat as well as the upland development on the other side of the berm. The project  also restored wetland areas and tidal flow to the southern part of the Tigertail Lagoon,  improving water quality and enhancing environmental habitats and recreational benefits.  

A recent image of the affected area is attached to this release.