4/13/26 @ 3:15 p.m.

​The Nassau County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) proudly announces that the State of Florida has received two prestigious national awards recognizing its support of the American Beach Water and Sewer Conversion Project, an initiative led and driven by Nassau County to improve infrastructure and protect this historic community.

The awards were presented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as part of its 2026 recognition of 48 outstanding water infrastructure projects across the country. Funded in part through State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, these projects highlight the vital role of modern water infrastructure in protecting public health and supporting economic prosperity.

Through its partnership with Nassau County, the State of Florida earned the AQUARIUS Award for Excellence in Innovative Financing and the PISCES Award for Community Engagement for its support of the American Beach Water and Sewer Conversion Project.

EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Jessica Kramer emphasized that SRF investments are helping communities modernize aging systems, strengthen resilience, and ensure access to safe, reliable water, demonstrating the impact of robust federal and state collaboration.

Locally, that collaboration resulted in the successful delivery of a centralized water and wastewater system for the American Beach community. The project was made possible through a $1.32 million Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) loan, federal grants, and additional state and local funding, allowing for the replacement of failing wells and septic systems while providing reliable, affordable service to residents. Importantly, the new infrastructure also enhances fire protection capabilities by supporting fire suppression through improved water flow and hydrant access, significantly strengthening public safety for the community.

The project also gained national recognition for its robust community engagement efforts. Early in the process, 79 residents submitted letters of commitment supporting the transition to a centralized sewer system, followed by a community straw ballot demonstrating support for funding mechanisms. The creation of the American Beach Water & Sewer District Advisory Board, along with years of public meetings, ensured residents remained actively involved throughout the project.

District Two County Commissioner A.M. “Hupp” Huppmann accepted the awards with the State of Florida at the Council of Infrastructure Financing Authorities (CIFA) Summit on Water Infrastructure in Washington, D.C., on April 8, 2026, highlighting the strong partnership between federal, state, and local entities.

BOCC Chair Alyson McCullough stated, “We are incredibly proud of the State of Florida’s recognition through these prestigious awards. The American Beach Water and Sewer Project represents the kind of innovative, community-focused work that sets a standard for other communities to follow. Through collaboration, careful planning, and creative financing, we were able to deliver modern infrastructure at no cost to residents, while ensuring their voices guided every step of the project. This recognition reflects the strength of our partnerships and the dedication of everyone involved.”

The project included the installation of more than 13,000 linear feet of gravity sewer and 2,300 linear feet of force main, for 350 parcels. In total, approximately $12 million was assembled from multiple funding sources, including State Revolving Fund programs, legislative appropriations, grants, and local contributions.

The County extends its sincere gratitude to the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA), the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the St. Johns River Water Management District, and the Advisory Board members, whose leadership and support were instrumental in making this project a reality.
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Special recognition is also extended to Senior Management Analyst Amy Bell, whose dedicated project management and ongoing communication with residents played a critical role in the project’s success.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

1/31/26 at 7:00 a.m. - 

Happy 91st Birthday American Beach! 

Founded on January 31, 1935, American Beach was established as a place of opportunity, recreation, and refuge for African American families during a time of segregation. For more than nine decades, this historic coastal community has stood as a powerful symbol of resilience, entrepreneurship, and cultural heritage.

In honor of this milestone, the Nassau County Board of County Commissioners is proud to highlight the recently released video, Beneath Our Feet – The American Beach Project, which brings to life the stories, history, and cultural significance rooted in this remarkable place. The project reminds us that American Beach’s legacy is not only preserved in photographs and records, but embedded in the land itself and in the generations who have called it home.
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As we celebrate 91 years of American Beach, we recognize its enduring importance to Nassau County, Florida, and the nation, and reaffirm our commitment to preserving this treasured landmark so its story continues to educate, inspire, and endure for generations to come.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

1/27/26 @ 5:00 p.m.  - At the Monday, January 26, 2026 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved a Proclamation declaring January 31, 2026 as American Beach Day in Nassau County, Florida. 

Founded on January 31, 1935, by the Pension Bureau of the Afro-American Life Insurance Company, American Beach was established as an oceanfront resort for its employees and shareholders at a time when African Americans were excluded from many coastal destinations. Once a thriving seaside community, American Beach now stands as a historic jewel that continues to attract visitors from near and far. 2026 marks the 91st anniversary of its founding, and the proclamation recognizes the lasting cultural, historical, and economic significance of American Beach, as well as the ongoing efforts of property owners and community advocates to preserve its legacy for future generations.

The BOCC applauds the community members whose efforts contribute to the preservation and longevity of this unique community, keeping the dream alive for 91 continuous years. 

-Sabrina Robertson 
 Communications Officer

1/7/25 @ 8:30 a.m. 

On Friday, December 19, 2025, the Board of County Commissioners hosted a Dedication Ceremony celebrating the completion of the American Beach Water & Sewer Project and commemorating the strong partnership between the community and multiple government agencies that made public water and sewer service a reality for American Beach.

Since late 2020, Nassau County staff, working closely with the Florida Governmental Utility Authority (FGUA) and state and federal partners, pursued every available funding opportunity to deliver this critical infrastructure project while minimizing the financial burden on property owners. These efforts resulted in State Revolving Fund loans with significant principal forgiveness, zero interest on remaining balances, a $23 million federal WIIN grant, and a $1.85 million commitment from the Board of County Commissioners, ultimately eliminating non-forgivable loan costs and ensuring property owners are fully reimbursed for required assessments. County staff also secured additional assistance through a Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) cost-share grant from the St. Johns River Water Management District to help eligible residents offset the cost of private sewer connections and septic tank abandonment. Through continued coordination with homeowners, this funding increased to more than $10,000 per participating household.

At the Dedication Ceremony, Commissioner A.M. "Hupp" Huppmann provided a welcome message, stating, "Today's event marks something that has been decades in the making and we are grateful to everyone who helped make the water and sewer conversion project a reality. The superb vision and dedicated efforts of this remarkable team brought historic positive change to this community.  On behalf of the BOCC, thank you for a job extremely well done." 

Evrin Gilyard, a long-time American Beach resident who served as Chairman of the American Beach Water & Sewer District Advisory Committee, represented the property owners in the conversion project.  Mr. Gilyard began by thanking the BOCC, county staff, advisory board members, and the property owners of American Beach for working together to make this project a reality. "This was a date that I wasn't sure we would ever see,” Gilyard said. “As many of us know, this (the efforts to get public water and sewer) started 20+ years ago, and I give this Board credit for making it happen. The Lord works things out. He doesn't always do things we want him to do it but he's always right on time." 

During the ceremony, the BOCC shared its new video series, Beneath Our Feet - The American Beach Project, which highlights American Beach’s history, community, and ongoing legacy, and tells the stories of stories of founders and families, of struggles and triumphs, and of a community that has always looked both to its past and its future. This three-part video can be found on the County's YouTube page at https://nassaufl.co/NassauFLYouTube. 

The ceremony concluded with recognition of the dedicated individuals who served on the American Beach Water & Sewer District Advisory Board: Ervin Gilyard, Ruth Waters, Eugene Emory, Tony Brown, Colleen Hicks, James Staton, and Joseph Hayman.  Their time, leadership, and advocacy played a critical role in guiding the project forward and ensuring the community’s voice was represented throughout the process. Their service reflects a deep commitment to the long-term health, sustainability, and future of the American Beach community.

The BOCC extends its sincere appreciation to the FGUA, Department of Environmental Protection, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the St. Johns River Water Management District whose collaboration and support made this project possible.  Most importantly, the County thanks the American Beach community for their patience, partnership, and trust throughout the construction process. Special recognition is also extended to Senior Management Analyst Amy Bell, whose dedicated project management and daily communication with residents—answering questions, addressing concerns, and providing ongoing support—played a critical role in the successful completion of this transformative project.

Below are some photos from the event. If you would like to watch the Dedication Ceremony, please click here.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer 

1/31/25 @ 4:00 a.m.

​Happy 90th Birthday to American Beach! Founded on January 31, 1935 by the Pension Bureau of the Afro-American Life Insurance Company, American Beach was developed as an ocean front resort for the Pension Bureau's employees and shareholders. During the period of racial segregation in America, American Beach became known to hundreds of thousands as the Negro Playground, and was a home in Paradise to many.

Today, community members take pride in caring for and preserving this unique community. The Board of County Commissioners commends all those who contribute to these efforts and maintaining this gem hidden in Nassau County.

Pictured: Beach crowd in the 1940s.
Photo credit: Amelia Island Museum of History at https://ameliaisland.pastperfectonline.com/photo/47CF8651-6CF3-47B9-A574-509365314400

1/14/25 @ 4:00 p.m. - At the Monday, January 13, 2025 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners proclaimed January 31, 2025 as American Beach Day. 

Founded on January 31, 1935 by the Pension Bureau of the Afro-American Life Insurance Company, American Beach was developed as an ocean front resort for the Pension Bureau's employees and shareholders. During the period of racial segregation in America, American Beach became known to hundreds of thousands as the Negro Playground, and was a home in Paradise to many. In 1982, property owners assumed leadership for the community and began a neighborhood association. The American Beach Property Owners’ Association, Inc., as custodian of this natural landmark, takes pride and responsibility in the care, preservation and well-being of the American Beach community

2025 marks the 90th Anniversary of the founding of American Beach. The Board of County Commissioners commends the American Beach Property Owners', the entire American Beach community, and all those who contribute to the preservation and longevity of this unique community and for keeping the dream alive for ninety years. 

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Communications Officer

8/30/24 @ 10:15 a.m.

​Community members and interested individuals attended a meeting to discuss the Crossroads area of American Beach (around Gregg and Lewis Streets) on Saturday, August 24th. The Planning Department hosted the event with facilitation provided by the Community Planning Collaborative at the American Beach Community Center on Amelia Island. Discussion during the community meeting focused on the following:

• Planning efforts to date;
• Update on Evans’ Rendezvous grant;
• Summary of neighborhood vision for Evans’ Rendezvous, and;
• Next steps for neighborhood planning efforts.

For more information related to the American Beach planning effort, view the following: https://www.nassaucountyfl.com/990/American-Beach-Neighborhood-Planning.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Public Information Officer

7/31/24 @ 8:40 a.m. - The Nassau County Planning Department will hold its next American Beach Beach Community Planning Meeting on Saturday, August 24, 2024 from 9am-10am at the American Beach Community Center. This event, "American Beach Crossroads", will focus on discussions around neighborhood planning at American Beach, specifically the "crossroads" area around Gregg and Lewis Streets.  Other topics include: 

• Update on Evans Rendezvous grant
• Summary of neighborhood vision for the Evans Rendezvous and crossroads area
• Next steps in neighborhood planning efforts

This event is free and open to the public. Everyone is welcome! If you have any questions, please contact the Planning Department at (904) 530-6320 or via email at [email protected]. 

-Sabrina Robertson
 Public Information Officer

5/23/24 @ 1:20 p.m.

​Please be advised that as part of the American Beach Water and Sewer Conversion Project, Lewis Street from First Coast Highway to Gregg Street will be closed for thru traffic beginning Tuesday, May 28, 2024.  Closures are expected daily for two weeks to begin road restoration. Residents living on Lewis Street will have access, although they may experience some delays.

Individuals attempting to reach the drive-on beach access in American Beach should enter via Burney Road.
 
We appreciate your cooperation and patience as we work to establish water and sewer services for the American Beach community. If you have any questions, please contact the County Manager's Office at (904) 530-6010.

-Sabrina Robertson
 Public Information Officer

3/8/24 @ 9:30 a.m. - The Nassau County Planning Department will hold its next American Beach community planning meeting on Saturday, March 23, 2024 from 10am-12pm at the American Beach Community Center. This event, "American Beach Crossroads", will focus on discussions around neighborhood planning at American Beach, specifically the "crossroads" area around Gregg and Lewis Streets. Other topics include: 

- History of the crossroads area
- Planning efforts to date
- Update on Evans' Rendezvous future use
- Explanation of land use/zoning in the area
- Interactive discussion about visioning of the crossroads area

This event is free and open to the public. Everyone is welcome! If you have any questions, please contact the Planning Department at (904) 530-6320 or via email at [email protected]. 

-Sabrina Robertson
 Public Information Officer

2/22/24 @ 9:30 a.m. - The Board of County Commissioners has been working to determine possible uses for the Evan's Rendezvous, a historical structure that served as a restaurant and entertainment venue in the American Beach Community. The site was acquired by the County through a Florida Community Trust Grant in 2004 and consists of the lot containing the Evans's Rendezvous structure, two lots to the south, and three lots across the street. At this time, the County is working with a consultant to explore options for future use.

The consultant, Community Planning Collaborative, has conducted planning efforts which included a focus on preservation, protection of the nearby dunes and vegetation, and rehabilitation of the structure, all while maintaining the unique and historic character of the community. A series of community meetings were held this fall to allow residents to provide feedback about possible uses.

​The results of their efforts were presented at the Monday, February 12, 2024 Board of County Commissioner's meeting. The PowerPoint presentation can be found here. You can also watch the presentation and hear all discussions and feedback by clicking here. The presentation can be found under "Tab B".

If you have any questions, please contact the Planning Department at (904) 530-6320.

-Sabrina Robertson
​ Public Information Officer

1/23/24 @ 3:30 p.m.

At the Board of County Commissioners meeting held on Monday, January 22, 2024, the Board approved Proclamation 2024-002 proclaiming the 31st of January 2024 as "American Beach Day". 

American Beach was originally founded on January 31, 1935 by the Pension Bureau of the Afro-American Life Insurance Company for the purpose of developing an oceanfront resort for its employees and shareholders. The once bustling community now serves as a historic jewel that attracts visitors near and far. 

The Board of County Commissioners applauds everyone who has contributed in preservation of this landmark and unique community. in recognition of American Beach Day, residents are urged to visit the AL Lewis Museum to learn more about American Beach's rich culture and history. Additional information can be found on the Museum's website. 

-Sabrina Robertson
 Public Information Officer

1/11/24 @ 10:00 a.m.

On Saturday, January 27, 2024, the County will host the third and final meeting in the series of community meetings related to future uses for the Evans' Rendezvous, a historical structure at American Beach. The County acquired the site through a Florida Community Trust Grant in 2004 which consists of the lot containing the structure, two lots to the south, and three lots across the street. 

At this time, the County is working with a consultant to explore options for future use. Planning efforts include a focus on preservation, protection of the nearby dunes and vegetation, and rehabilitation of the structure, all while maintaining the unique and historic character of the community. 

Dozens of residents attended meetings held on November 4 and December 2, 2023. Presentations from each meeting can be found on here on the Planning Department's webpage. If you were unable to attend the presentations but have questions, please reach out to Planning Director, Elizabeth Backe, at (904) 530-6320 or via email at [email protected]. 

Please join us on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the American Beach Community Center located at 1600 Julia Street, Amelia Island, FL 32034.

-Sabrina Robertson 
​ Public Information Officer