Eight days after Hurricane Helene’s devastating six-foot storm surge swept through downtown St. Petersburg, approximately 200 residents of the Municipal Marina find themselves in a precarious situation. With no electricity and an uncertain future, many feel overlooked by city officials. (photo credit St. Pete Catalyst)

A Marina in Distress

The once-bustling 640-slip facility, often touted as the city’s “front yard,” now bears the scars of neglect and storm damage. Mounds of seaweed-strewn debris litter the area, accompanied by an unpleasant odor – a stark contrast to the upscale image St. Petersburg typically projects.

Residents’ Frustrations Mount

Samantha Kahn, a local educator who chose the marina for its affordability in a city known for high housing costs, expresses the growing frustration among residents. “We’re all exhausted and disheartened,” Kahn states. “The prevailing sentiment is that power may never be restored.”

The lack of clear communication from city officials has left many liveaboards feeling abandoned. While periodic updates are posted, they fail to address residents’ long-term concerns. “These bulletins aren’t telling me how to plan the rest of my life,” Kahn laments.

Challenging Living Conditions

With temperatures soaring and heat indices exceeding 100 degrees, life aboard the vessels has become nearly unbearable. “My boat is like an oven, even with windows open,” Kahn describes. The absence of shade exacerbates the situation, making basic tasks like tidying up almost impossible.

While restrooms have been restored, other essential facilities remain offline. Air-conditioned lounges, complete with laundry facilities and vending machines, sit idle without power. Kahn emphasizes the urgent need for a cooling station to provide relief from the oppressive heat.

A Community United in Adversity

Despite the challenges, a sense of community persists. Tony Ashley, known for his helpfulness around the marina, chose to weather the storm on his boat. He’s part of a dedicated group that stays behind during evacuations to secure vessels and assist fellow residents.

Ashley’s commitment to the community is evident as he regularly supplies gas for generators and checks on elderly neighbors. However, he acknowledges the difficulties faced by some residents, particularly those with limited mobility or on fixed incomes.

A History of Neglect

The current crisis has brought longstanding issues to the forefront. A 2017 Master Plan highlighted the need for repairs and modernization of aging docks. Despite plans for redevelopment under Safe Harbor Marinas, selected by Mayor Ken Welch in January, residents note that even minor repairs have ceased.

“The city has allowed the marina to fall into disrepair,” Ashley observes. “Pilings come loose with every strong wind, indicating a lack of proper inspection and maintenance.”

An Uncertain Future

As residents await power restoration, they grapple with both immediate concerns and long-term uncertainties. The affordable living that once attracted many to the marina now comes with significant challenges.

Ashley, maintaining a pragmatic outlook, believes the city will eventually restore power, even if it requires rebuilding the electrical infrastructure. In the meantime, residents adapt as best they can, relying on portable generators and simple meals.

“Living in a marina comes with inherent risks,” Ashley reminds fellow residents. “This isn’t a typical housing community.”

As St. Petersburg’s Municipal Marina residents navigate these turbulent waters, their resilience is tested. The coming days and weeks will reveal whether the city can address both the immediate crisis and the long-term needs of this unique waterfront community.