PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Fort De Soto Park's North Beach reopened on Monday after parts of the park have been closed for months following last year's back-to-back hurricanes.
Fort De Soto Park is the largest park in the Pinellas County park system, spanning 1,136 acres.
Monday marked a major phase in hurricane recovery as the beach welcomes visitors back.
The storms caused flooding in the park facilities, damaged boat ramps and fishing piers, and destroyed hundreds of trees. Debris was spread along the beaches and campsites. The county said it was a major effort between staff and volunteers to clean up and reopen.
“We appreciate the patience of our residents and visitors as we bring Fort De Soto closer to full operation," Paul Cozzie, director of Parks and Conservation Resources, said. "This park is a cherished part of Pinellas County, and we are excited to welcome everyone back in time for the spring break season.”
Some areas, like the East Loop and parts of the seawall near the historic site, are still closed, and access to boat ramps is also limited because of repairs.
"Campground is now fully reopened. We had a lot of electrical issues in there. Went and rebuilt 240 electrical pedestals," said David Harshbarger, the park manager. "We really appreciate the public's patience. We just want to make sure things are safe when folks get back out here, so this morning, being able to take down that last barricade, just a nice success to get people back on the beach."
Regulars wasted no time getting back on North Beach, lounging in the sun and taking a stroll on the sand, saying they're happy to be back months in the making.
"I did miss it, so when I saw that the North Beach was going to open today, I made this my outing for the day," said Joni Reeder.
“We need to listen to the voice of the people, right?”
Last summer, the Florida Department of Environment Protection considered adding amenities like golf courses, pickleball courts, and hotels to state parks across the state. After public outcry, the plans were shelved, but the fight isn't over for some Florida residents.
