As the Memorial Day weekend looms, it's essential to know that Pinellas County isn't quite post-storm perfect yet. Some of the county's parks and amenities are still licking their wounds from last year’s hurricanes, with various features temporarily unavailable or operating with limited access. According to Pinellas County Parks & Conservation Resources, repair works are in progress, aiming to restore the full splendor of the recreational spaces as soon as their contractors can hammer the last nail.
Highlights of the current status include the closure of Anderson Park's lakeside boardwalk and reduced boat launch access at both Fort De Soto and War Veterans’ Memorial parks, so for those looking to hit the waters, caution is key, with only one floating dock at Fort De Soto and none at War Veterans' park; however, new docks should be welcoming seafarers by year's end. Fort De Soto Park visitors will also face the absence of 250 picnic tables swept away by storm surges, though replacements are en route and currently, shelters 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, and 10 will go without while the other shelters flaunt freshly installed tables; thankfully, all shelter structures stand solid, and park-goers are invited to bring their own tables and chairs to fill in the gaps where the county has not yet replaced what was lost.
For those planning an oceanside cookout, it's a bit of a mixed bag at Fred Howard Park. While beachgoers won't find working restrooms on the beachfront, the facilities near the picnic shelters are welcoming visitors. And those who seek shelter at Lake Seminole Park should note that Shelter 3 remains off-limits. The Madeira Beach access is closed altogether, undergoing significant repairs, so cast your beach towels elsewhere.
Despite these blemishes, it's not all gloom for outdoor enthusiasts in Pinellas County. The good news is that the other parks, preserves, trails, and beaches are unfurled in their full glory daily from 7 a.m. to sunset, so there's still plenty of opportunity to savor the almost-summer sun.
