Local nature enthusiasts will have to pause their plans to visit Dutton Island Preserve. According to a recent announcement from the City of Atlantic Beach, the popular recreational area has been officially shut down until further notice. The closure comes as a result of "significant hazards associated with recent flooding," a situation which the city insists must be remedied to ensure the safety of its visitors before the preserve can be reopened to the public.
Despite the inconvenience, officials are emphasizing the importance of this action stressing safety as their paramount concern. The flooding has created conditions that are currently deemed unsafe for public access and use, and the preserve will remain off-limits until staff can thoroughly evaluate and rectify the situation, furthermore the City—who provided information via their official website at coab.us—has made it clear that the public should respect the closure and not attempt to enter the preserve.
Trespassing during the closure poses safety risks and may delay restoration efforts at the preserve. City officials are asking for the community’s cooperation as they work to address flooding and begin recovery for affected areas.
The City of Atlantic Beach will share updates about the reopening once available. In the meantime, residents are advised to check the city’s website and social media for the latest information. City staff are working to reopen Dutton Island Preserve safely and as soon as possible.
