Destin, Florida

Destin has been working with the Trust for Public Land, the Tourism Development Council, and Okaloosa County to make the purchases and has so far bought back about 117 feet of beach for public use. They have $22 million set aside to soon purchase additional public beach parcels. “It’s been a big improvement,” says Jarvis. “Our residents are excited about this program that we are doing, and of course our visitors who really need it most are really enjoying it.” Destin is also in the early stages of a utility undergrounding project for a portion of Highway 98, which runs through the city. While the state is widening the highway to six lanes, the city will move utility lines underground to help beautify the area and protect the lines from storm- caused power outages. Jarvis acknowledges, “It will create not only a scenic corridor so people want to slow down and stop to see what Destin is all about, but more importantly, it is hardening our infrastructure against the storms. The vision