Strengthening Shorelines, Sustaining Community at Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse ONA

For generations, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area (ONA) has served as a defining landmark for the community. It is here that history, recreation, education and conservation intersect along Florida’s Atlantic Coast, offering public access to unique coastal ecosystems, scenic views of the inlet and lighthouse, and opportunities for boating, snorkeling, fishing, and environmental education, making it a treasured destination for residents and visitors alike.  

Protecting those natural and recreational values is central to the Bureau of Land Management’s stewardship of the site. Recently, staff at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area hosted Deputy Secretary of the Interior Kate MacGregor and Eastern States State Director Mitch Leverette for a tour highlighting progress on the $16 million Shoreline Stabilization Project, a critical investment designed to safeguard the area’s shoreline while enhancing public access and long-term resilience.  

Most of the project’s funding was provided through the Great America’s Outdoor Act (GAOA), cooperative grants totaling $7 million from the Florida Inland Navigation District provided the final funding needed to advance enhanced waterway access and additional recreational improvement projects.  

The GAOA Shoreline Stabilization Project covers approximately five acres, and includes construction of a retaining wall, installation of in-water wave breaks, pilings, artificial reef structures, and an addition of shoreline access points. The planting of upland and tidal vegetation, including mangroves, will enhance and protect the area’s terrestrial and marine habitats while supporting improved recreational opportunities. 

“The Great American Outdoors Act signed into law by President Trump, is about making lasting investments in our public lands to improve the experience for all our visitors who use them. Projects like this show exactly why that commitment matters,” MacGregor said. “It was exciting to be on site with the team to see firsthand how this work will enhance recreation, improve resilience, and ensure places like Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse ONA can be enjoyed by the people for generations to come.” 

The project is currently halfway through construction, with the two-tier curved retaining wall and multiple staircases completed. In-water work is underway and includes 22 breakwaters, a dock, 800 feet of boardwalk, installation of artificial reefs, and creation of an expanded beach.  Construction is expected to be complete by the end of FY 26, with a highly anticipated Ribbon Cutting event in December.  

“Seeing the Eastern States team engaged in hands-on restoration work and being able to share that work with leadership and others in the community, was especially meaningful,” Leverette said. “Protecting the shoreline and providing better recreational opportunities to boaters, snorkelers and future generations speaks to the importance of our work and the strength of our workforce].” 

For continued updates, go to Great American Outdoors Act Shoreline Stabilization Project. 

For more about this historical BLM site, go to Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse ONA.