Beach revitalization is underway in Hernando County.

New sand is being leveled at Alfred A. McKethan Park on Pine Island. The man-made beach is getting at least four new loads of sand.

The project was spawned by public meetings about a proposed new tourism center. Some residents asked county officials why they were considering something new when the existing beach needed work.

"They are going to keep the beach up, I think that's awesome,” said resident Ann Morton. “They guys have been awesome from Hernando County, gearing us around them, slowing down for the kids and stuff like that."

Right now there's an honor system in place for parking but county leaders say it isn't going well so they're thinking about putting parking attendants back at the entrance to collect the parking fees.

Albina Borges likes things the way they are and said people need to follow the rules and pay up.

“They take things for granted that it's free but it's not. No matter where you go you have to pay,” Borges said.

County leaders say the beach renourishment project will wrap up soon. Then crews will do the same to the beach at Rogers Park.