Barrier Islands Reopen To Residents, Business Owners: Pinellas County

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — All barrier islands and beaches, which were pummeled by Hurricane Helene, reopened only to residents, business owners and employees Saturday at 4 p.m., Pinellas County officials said.

To access the barrier islands, people must provide their Barrier Island Re-Entry Permit or photo ID and reasonable proof that they live or have legitimate business on the barrier islands, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

Proof includes vehicle registration, property tax or utility bill, proof of employment (pay stub, work ID or uniform), or work orders.

• Related: Hurricane Helene: 52 Dead In 5 States; Damage Could Top $95 Billion

The north and southbound lanes of Gulf Boulevard will remain closed from 150th Avenue (Tom Stuart Causeway) south to 140th Avenue in Madeira Beach, PCSO said.

Gulf Boulevard, both north and southbound from the Park Boulevard Bridge to 196th Avenue (Tiki Gardens County Park) in Indian Shores will also remain closed.

Drivers are asked to take caution and treat each intersection as a four-way stop, as the power is out and traffic lights and signals aren’t functioning.

“Please note that not all buildings have been inspected for structural integrity. Re-enter your property at your own risk,” the sheriff’s office said.

Deputies will reevaluate Sunday morning whether further openings will happen.

“The beach communities are not open to visitors. If you don't live or work on the beach, you won't be permitted access,” Clearwater city officials wrote in a Facebook. “Pier 60 is closed due to the damage it sustained during the storm. Public parking lots are closed as they are being used for equipment storage, contaminated sand storage and clean-up operations. And public safety crews continue to work around the clock to make conditions safe enough for our beach residents.”

Beach communities in southern Pinellas County — from John’s Pass to Fort DeSoto, remain under a boil water notice. This specifically affects St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island and Tierra Verde customers, the county said in a news release.

Residents should use bottled water or boil tap water before you use it for cooking, drinking or personal hygiene.