BLM, partners break ground on improvements at Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area
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Jupiter, Fla. – Today the Bureau of Land Management broke ground on a critical infrastructure project to protect and enhance the iconic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and unique, significant resources of surrounding public lands. The community, local elected officials, and special guests joined BLM officials in celebrating the $16 million effort to stabilize the shoreline and incorporate resilient recreation features at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area.
With an investment of $8.3 million from the Great American Outdoors Act, the project will add engineered and living shoreline components to reduce erosion and sediments entering the Intracoastal Waterway. Covering about 5 acres, the project includes construction of a retaining wall, installation of in-water wave breaks, pilings, artificial reef structures, and an addition of shoreline access points. The planting of upland and tidal vegetation, including mangroves, will enhance and protect the area’s terrestrial and marine habitats.
“Without intervention, these public lands will continue to lose seven feet of shoreline annually,” said BLM Acting Eastern States State Director Leah Baker. “The BLM and our state and local partners are taking action to protect and enhance the shoreline at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area for all to enjoy now and into the future.”
Federal funds for construction are matched by $7 million in cooperative grants from the Florida Inland Navigation District, which provides government assistance to develop waterway access and improvement projects.
“We are excited to partner with the Bureau of Land Management in this effort,” said Florida Inland Navigation District Commissioner Austin Burkett. “This critical project will aid in protecting the navigability of the Intracoastal Waterway around the Jupiter Lighthouse and preserve shoreline access and opportunity for boaters and other recreationalists in perpetuity.”
When the project is complete, visitors will have more access to the area’s educational facilities, shoreline, and the Loxahatchee River. The project will add resilient recreation features, including an improved kayak launch and dock, ADA-compliant walkways, safety improvements to a marine education and snorkeling space, and in-water structures that can withstand wave action, tidal forces, and storm events.
The shoreline stabilization project complements earlier enhancement efforts completed in partnership with the Jupiter Inlet District, Loxahatchee River District, and the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum.
“We look forward to the continued partnership with the BLM on this project,” said Katrina Heller, Executive Director of the Loxahatchee River Historical Society. “This action will revitalize our public lands and safeguard historical resources and recreational opportunities in the area for generations to come.”
More than 150,000 visitors recreate at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area, designated by Congress in 2008 to showcase the unique ecological and cultural significance of the region surrounding the historic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. Spanning approximately 120 acres, the site is a vital space for public recreation, education, and conservation efforts, preserving its history and natural beauty for future generations.
Additional information and planning documents are available at the BLM National NEPA Register.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.