Pinellas beaches, barrier islands reopen to the public

Pinellas County beaches and barrier islands officially reopen to the public at 4pm. on October 1. After the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, a massive cleanup effort has been underway. According to the Florida Department of Transportation, a dedicated team of 125 workers removed around 200 loads, totaling nearly 14,000 cubic yards of sand, from Gulf Boulevard in just under three days.

As businesses work to recover, John’s Pass landmark Hubbards Marina announced its plans for reconstruction. “Tonight at 4pm, the beaches will be reopened to all, allowing our friends and family who do not live on the islands to come back to the beaches,” the marina shared. Starting Wednesday, October 2, the business will focus on rebuilding its storm-damaged dock. Hubbards Marina is calling for experienced carpenters and woodworkers to help with the repairs. Those with tools and skills are encouraged to join the effort to restore the dock quickly.

Rebuilding our beautiful beach communities

Hubbards Marina also invites anyone who wants to contribute to the cleanup to come down beginning October 2 with shovels, brooms, wheelbarrows, trash bags, and gloves. Volunteers are asked to bring their supplies and work at their own risk. “Let’s build Hubbards Marina and John’s Pass back better than ever!” the marina urged in its statement.

Treasure Island has also issued a call for volunteers to assist with the hurricane cleanup. The city is seeking help to restore the beach community after Hurricane Helene left significant damage. Individuals willing to volunteer can contact Jessica Zamora at jzamora@mytreasureisland.org or by texting 727-743-5495.

Volunteer opportunities on the barrier islands

For more information, Treasure Island encourages volunteers to check its social media pages or follow the Treasure Island Adopt-A-Beach program for updates. Volunteers can also sign up through Volunteer Connect, a statewide online portal that matches volunteers with organizations in need, at volunteerflorida.org/volunteerconnect.

With community efforts in full swing, the resilient spirit of these coastal communities is set to bring Pinellas County’s beaches and businesses back stronger than ever.

Local businesses launching GoFundMe’s in the wake of Hurricane Helene to ssupport their staff:

• Candy Kitchen
• Indian Shores Coffee
• La Croisette, St. Pete Beach
• Seaside Seabird Sanctuary, Indian Shores
• Grove Surf and Coffee, St. Pete Beach
• Let It Be Ice Cream, Gulfport
• Ten Pin Lanes, St. Petersburg
• Bavaro’s, Clearwater