This cost must be borne locally. Neither the State nor Federal Government want to subsidize sand-bypassing on a continuing basis. It is proposed that lock maintenance costs would be subsidized by charges to boat users. Lots of problems remain to be worked out. Environmental concerns can probably be overcome if lock construction and operation is planned and handled carefully.
Economic considerations are another matter.
They have also agreed to provide sufficient guaranteed funding to remove the jetties if it is perceived that their emplacement is jeopardizing the stability of adjacent beaches. After all - the beaches are the single most important asset of Escambia County and must be preserved at all cost.