Smathers Beach
Project Overview
- Type: Coastal / Marine Engineering
- Client: City of Key West, Florida
- Location: Key West, FL
Smathers Beach, located on the Atlantic shoreline of Key West, is the city’s largest and most visited public beach. Stretching approximately 3,000 feet, it is a vital recreational and economic asset for residents and tourists alike.
G.M. Selby was engaged to perform comprehensive beach profile surveys and environmental assessments to support ongoing shoreline management, evaluate storm impacts, and secure funding for beach renourishment efforts.
Key Coastal & Environmental Challenges
Hurricane-Driven Erosion & Sand Loss
Storm events routinely shift large volumes of sand, requiring continuous monitoring to maintain a stable and resilient shoreline.
01
Dynamic Offshore Bathymetry Changes
Wave action and storm surges alter the seafloor profile, making updated bathymetric data essential for accurate coastal planning.
02
Protection of Sensitive Marine Habitats
Seagrass beds and hard-bottom communities demand careful evaluation to ensure environmental compliance during all coastal activities.
03
High-Use Public Beach Requirements
The beach supports tourism and local recreation, requiring management strategies that preserve access while maintaining long-term stability.
04
Scope of Work
G.M. Selby provided extensive coastal surveying and analytical services, including:
- Beach profile surveys extending over 400 feet offshore from the mean high-water line
- Identification and mapping of seagrass beds and hard-bottom communities along survey transects
- Calculation of sand volume losses caused by hurricanes and seasonal erosion
- Preparation of technical documentation used to secure FEMA recovery funding
- Ongoing surveys conducted prior to multiple renourishment cycles to track long-term shoreline changes
- These services help support responsible coastal management and ensure the beach remains safe, stable, and environmentally compliant.