PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Pinellas County has announced that starting at 4:00 p.m. today, access to all beaches and barrier islands will be restricted. Only residents, business owners, and employees with a valid Barrier Island Re-Entry Permit will be granted entry.
Certain sections of Gulf Boulevard remain closed due to ongoing recovery efforts. These include the north and southbound lanes from 150th Avenue (Tom Stuart Causeway) south to 140th Avenue in Madeira Beach, as well as both north and southbound lanes from the Park Boulevard Bridge to 196th Avenue (Tiki Gardens County Park) in Indian Shores.
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To gain access to the barrier islands, individuals must present their Barrier Island Re-Entry Permit or a photo ID along with reasonable proof of residency or legitimate business on the islands. This proof can include vehicle registration, property tax or utility bills, proof of employment (pay stub, work ID, uniform), or work orders.
It is important to note that power is currently out on the barrier islands, and traffic lights and signals are not functioning. Drivers are advised to exercise caution and treat every intersection as a four-way stop.
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Additional law enforcement resources will be patrolling all mandatory evacuation areas, including the Pinellas County barrier island communities, to ensure public safety and protect property.
Deputies will reassess the situation tomorrow morning and provide updates if there are any changes to the barrier island restrictions.
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