Beachgoers are talking about new funding that will bring back the gritty charm of Southwest Florida.

Fort Myers Beach, Florida. Much of the charm of Southwest Florida will get big funding.

Beaches heavily impacted by Hurricanes Ian and Nicole will receive some treatment and money will be allocated to restore them.

Governor Ron DeSantis today announced millions of dollars in funding to renovate the beaches. This includes Lee County hotspot favorites such as the Sanibel and Captiva Islands.

News that brings a smile to those who love water.

“Our hearts simply go out for the residents and people who love Fort Myers.”

Some beachgoers in Fort Myers Beach are still in shock nearly four months after Hurricane Ian.

“You can tell there’s been some progress, but there’s so much trash and so many other things that just need to be done,” said Jennifer and Cameron Mayhill, who traveled from Indiana.

What will be done is funding as Governor DeSantis announced $100 million to restore beaches across the state. Over $23 goes to Lee County and over $2 million to Collier County.

“Here it is simply necessary to return life to normal,” Cameron Mayhill said.

And there are signs of normal as people gather for a typical Southwest Florida sunset.

“It’s good to see the revival coming back. I know it’s going to be slow, I know it’s going to look different, I hope it doesn’t lose its catchiness.”

Sally Gruber and her husband Mark have been visiting Fort Myers Beach for 40 years.

“We’ve seen growth over the years, but we haven’t seen this devastation.”

The money allocated by the governor will go to the restoration of beaches destroyed or washed out due to Jan and Nicole. The return of much-needed sand to Florida’s southwestern shores. The move was welcomed by the Grubers.

“That’s great news,” Sally said. “I would love to see how this gets Sanibel, Captiva and everyone back to where they were. All three suffered devastating losses.”

The new sand is also expected to provide an improved buffer between storm surges and the ground acting as a barrier.

“We are big beach lovers and it will be great to see this area become beautiful again,” said Jennifer Mayhill.

Giving these beach lovers hope for even more spectacular sunsets like today.

“I think it will get bigger,” Sally said. “I hope he comes back better, but I really liked what it was.”