MANATEE COUNTY BEACHES (WSNN) – People are swarming to Suncoast beaches during this time of year and Manatee County is feeling the rush.
This time last year, Manatee County beaches were closed due to COVID-19. But now, it’s open for spring breakers and the upcoming holidays of Easter and Memorial Day weekend.
“We’ll get anywhere around just 20,000 visitors on Coquina and Cortez,” Manatee County Beach Patrol Chief Joe Westerman said. “And we’ll get about 12 to 15,000 just on Manatee Beach just on those holiday days; that’s not encompassing the entire weekend.”
And that’s not including the surrounding beaches. So Manatee County Public Safety officials are teaming up with its island partners and law enforcement agencies to prepare for the holiday weekend.
SOT: Manatee County Emergency Management Chief Steve Litschauer
“Working together from Longboat Key all the way up through Bradenton Beach, Holmes Beach; code enforcement, EMS, are able to communicate to on another, in case there’s an emergency,” Manatee County Emergency Management Chief Steve Litschauer said. “They can effectively deal with the situation and again make it a pleasant time for the citizens here enjoying the weekend.”
Normal safety rules are in place like no alcohol, pets, or grilling on the beach. And as far as COVID safety measures go…
“Although we are out in the open, wear a mask, when you can’t social distance and be mindful of those as you move about in the public areas with COVID-19 still prevalent in our community,” Manatee County Public Safety Director Jacob Saur said.
“We feel safe,” Ohio resident, Judy Barns said. “I mean people are very respectful.”
More people means more traffic. The Holmes Beach agencies have been tracking the numbers.
“From the first to the 26th, we had 650,000 vehicles that came on to Holmes beach alone. That’s 24,700 cars a day. So if you’re wanting to come to the beach and you’re looking for parking, make sure you come early.”
Nonetheless, all are welcome to the beaches. From spring breakers…
“I just like Florida because of the beaches and the weather,” Spring Breakers from Illinois, Gary Winthorp said.
“It’s nice to know things are going back to the way they were,” College spring breaker from Tennessee, Roel Martinez said. “So things like this, it’s nice to experience it,”
To the locals …
“We come, even though we know it’s going to be crowded during this period of time,” Parrish resident,” Loretta Brownell said with her husband Michael beside her. “We’re here because we love the beach.
Remember when it comes to alcohol, pets, and parking; citations will be issued. On Holmes Beach, you will get a $75 fine. So, let’s stay safe, and have a good time on the beach.
