Higgs Beach Public Meeting 7/8/2026

The City of Key West held a public meeting on July 8, 2026, focused on the status and future plans for Higgs Beach. City officials provided updates on ongoing and upcoming capital improvement projects, including a $300,000 beach renourishment project, repairs to the seawall and Reynolds Pier, and enhancements to the pickleball courts with plans for 16 tournament-grade courts and a center court. Funding sources discussed included $1.5 million received from the county, $834,000 assigned from Tourist Development Council (TDC) funds for HVAC, yoga deck, and pier improvements, and an anticipated $2 million in October for field development. The city emphasized that all improvements are tied to funding availability and permitting processes. Community members raised concerns about beach maintenance, safety, accessibility, dog park conditions, parking, and enforcement of pier usage rules. The city acknowledged these issues and committed to developing maintenance plans, improving facilities, and engaging with the community. No reallocations of existing capital improvement funds were planned; all projects depend on new funding. The meeting also addressed long-term maintenance funding, insurance proceeds related to Hurricane Ian damages, and future plans for Astro City and the hockey rink, including a $1 million project to add a roof and concession stand. The city encouraged public participation in upcoming budget meetings and ongoing strategic planning.