Vero Beach Launches Citizens Committee to Fund and Rebuild the Humiston Beach Park Boardwalk
One of Vero Beach’s most treasured coastal features is one step closer to being restored. The city has officially established the five-member Humiston Boardwalk Citizens Committee to help raise the final private funds needed to replace the beloved Humiston Beach Park boardwalk, which was lost to severe weather.
The original 50-year-old boardwalk was a staple for local residents and visitors alike until it was severely damaged by Hurricane Nicole in 2022. Deemed unsafe, the damaged structure was subsequently demolished. Now, the city of Vero Beach is preparing to break ground on a brand-new, resilient replacement estimated to cost $4.7 million.
The city plans to begin construction on the new boardwalk in November, with an expected completion date in April, restoring a vital piece of the Vero Beach coastal experience.
While a significant portion of the project’s funding will be covered by the city, Indian River County, and state grants, the financial plan also relies on approximately $400,000 in private donations. Local generosity has already been impressive. Through the Indian River Community Foundation, which is managing the private contributions, the community has already raised roughly $145,000 and secured an additional $160,000 in pledges.
This leaves a remaining fundraising gap of about $95,000. To ensure the project crosses the finish line, the Vero Beach City Council unanimously approved the creation of the new citizens committee on June 23 to jumpstart the final funding push. The group’s primary objectives include:
- Developing a comprehensive fundraising plan to secure the final $95,000 before the committee officially disbands on December 31.
- Determining meaningful ways to recognize the donors who have already generously contributed to the rebuilding efforts.
- Exploring creative community recognition ideas, such as installing dedicated plaques or selling boardwalk plants featuring donor names.
City Council member John Carroll, who originally proposed the formation of the committee, will serve as a facilitator for the group rather than a voting member. Carroll has demonstrated strong personal support for the initiative, noting that his family has already donated $20,000 toward the new boardwalk. He expressed optimism that community contributions will accelerate once residents begin to see tangible construction progress at the beach later this year.
With construction bids expected shortly and groundwork slated for November, the revival of the Humiston Beach Park boardwalk stands as a testament to the resilience and community spirit of Indian River County. For residents of the Treasure Coast, this upcoming spring promises a beautiful, newly restored walkway to safely enjoy our spectacular Florida shoreline once again.
