TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. — Treasure Island is one of the Tampa Bay area's beach towns that offers residents and tourists sandy white beaches and gorgeous ocean views coupled with good eats and community.
It was also one of the beaches hard hit by recent Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The damage was widespread and severe across our beach towns. Power lines went down, sand inundated streets and buildings, roofs were torn off and trees were uprooted.
On Sunday, city leaders said, "While we have some rebuilding ahead, welcoming everyone back to the beach is a big step toward healing together." This comes several days after the city announced most of its beaches reopened to visitors.
Leaders thanked crews who worked hard to restore the beaches, because "they are not just a place but the heart of Treasure Island."
"Here, our residents find peace, our businesses find livelihood, and our visitors find joy."
While most beaches are back open, not everything is completely back to normal, and the city wants to make sure visitors are "respectful" of the beach community's needs.
For example, Sunset Beach is still closed and undergoing more restoration. And, some parking lots and restrooms are still closed. Additionally, there may still be some hazards along the Beach Trail and some small bits of debris could still be in the sand, so everyone is asked to use caution while out and about.
"Thank you for your patience, understanding, and, most of all, for being a part of this incredible community," the city said. "Treasure Island wouldn’t be the same without you. So come, enjoy the waves and the sun—it’s still the paradise we all love."
