Lido Beach makes national 'best of' list

A national group is recognizing Lido Beach as one of the country’s best-restored beaches.

The American Shore and Beach Preservation Association just announced Lido’s inclusion on the list.

“We are honored our preservation and enhancement efforts at Lido Beach have been recognized as some of the best in the nation,” said Mayor Dick Clapp.

A two-month beach renourishment project that concluded last month pumped more than 600,000 tons of sand from Big Pass onto Lido Key, creating a beach that is up to 200 yards wider than it had been.

The $4.6 million project was funded by federal and state grants and county tourist tax dollars.