FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — Gov. Rick Scott announced that he will use his executive authority to allocate more than $15 million in state funds for emergency beach restoration projects to repair erosion caused by Hurricane Matthew in October.
Scott made the announcement Friday at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park in Flagler County.
Photos: Skywitness 9 over Hurricane Matthew damage
Scott spoke near dunes that were breached by the October storm.
"We have money in our budget for beach refurbishment. We are going to continue to do that. Take care of our beaches, but these are for emergency repairs," Scott said.
Scott said money from the state's Division of Emergency Management will fund restoration projects in Volusia, Flagler, Brevard and St. Johns counties.
"Because of what Matthew did to you people, you know, you needed repairs," said beachgoer Paul Bellsterling.
Photos: Hurricane Matthew damage in Daytona Beach
Scott said the money will go toward adding sand to the beaches and repairing or building sand dunes. He said the projects will protect coastal roads and buildings and enhance beaches that are important for tourism and sea turtle nesting.
The storms powerful winds and heavy rains damaged the beach and destroyed portions of A1A.
It's unclear how the $15 million will be split up between the counties.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Cox Media Group
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