Beachgoers return to Flagler Beach

FLAGLER BEACH, Fla. – The waves are rough and debris still litters the beach, but it didn't stop folks from going after a section of beach reopened Wednesday morning.

"We're just thankful that we can come down now, enjoy the beach, even though a small part is open," said Jean Ingermann.

This after Hurricane Matthew destroyed the beach, the pier and the highway.

"Doesn't seem like much of the beach is left. You have all the seaweed and still a lot of debris on the beach," said Albert Difederico.

"It's just devastating to see the mess it created," said Ruby Difederico.

Warning signs decorate the beach that say parts of it are still closed and to watch out for submerged rocks and debris. However, those signs aren't stopping surfers, couples and families from getting back to their daily routines.

"We love the beach. We come here Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays," said Jim Ingermann.

"It's the most exciting place to be because it's always changing and there's just so many wonderful things to the ocean," said Dilene Rohreck.

U.S. Senator Bill Nelson returned to Flagler Beach Wednesday morning talking about using federal and state money to fix Highway A1A and Flagler Beach. Divers will also be assessing the damaged pier starting Monday.

"In the water bill, we got the Flagler Beach renourishment authorized in the Senate and in the House. So, there's no issue there. You just got to get all the other disagreements worked out, which we will get in this session, after the election," Senator Nelson said.

Meanwhile, folks are just enjoying what they can.

"We're just appreciative that we have this much left," Ingerman said.