During the Feb. 26 Madeira Beach workshop meeting, the city’s parks took center stage, signaling a shift to a more stable phase of hurricane recovery. Discussions highlighted beachfront Archibald Park’s new restrooms, the proposed “Honor Court” at Patriot Park, and fresh designs for neighborhood pocket parks.

Archibald Park, located at Tom Stuart Causeway, serves as the city’s main beach access point. Its aging public restrooms, long in need of replacement due to wear and insufficient ADA compliance, were demolished last October for a full rebuild. Public Works Director Megan Wepfer announced that the new facilities, along with the hurricane-damaged parking lot, are slated to open by April 1. However, the beloved Snack Shack at the park will remain closed longer, as the concessionaire continues cleanup and repairs.

At Kitty Stuart Park, near 141st Avenue on the beach, a new seawall is in the works before it can reopen. “It might seem quiet there, but engineers are designing a seawall like the one at Archibald Park for better hurricane protection,” Wepfer explained.

While beach access points from 136th Avenue south to John’s Pass Park are operational again, some require milling and resurfacing. Wepfer noted that a proposal and bid package are being prepared. Meanwhile, northern beach accesses remain closed for repairs. City Manager Robin Gomez reported a loss of 114 out of 530 parking spaces, impacting revenue.

R.O.C. Park, next to city hall, has largely recovered from hurricane damage, with only minor curb and fencing work left, and is now open.

Plans for a Military Honor Court at Patriot Park, honoring the five U.S. military branches near the 9-11 Memorial, are moving forward. Initially budgeted at $250,000, costs rose to about $400,000, prompting Gomez to say designers are exploring cost-saving measures like simpler seating and reduced landscaping. Updated plans will be reviewed at the March workshop.

Neighborhood pocket parks near Boca Ciega Avenue are nearing final design. Commissioner David Tagliarini emphasized residents’ calls to enhance these spaces, which are technically “street ends” extending from Boca Ciega Avenue to the bay at 131st, 132nd, 134th, and 135th avenues East. “I’m thrilled about this,” Tagliarini said. “The plans look fantastic.” He noted the $2 million project is funded through ARPA, a 2021 COVID relief stimulus. Wepfer added that permit details are being coordinated with Planning & Zoning before bidding begins.

Progress updates included the John’s Pass dredging, still awaiting U.S. Army Corps approval. “We expect a response in 30 to 60 days, aiming for completion by June, though we have until year-end if needed,” Gomez said. The John’s Pass North Jetty project, featuring a new concrete sidewalk along the popular fishing and sightseeing spot, is in design and awaiting approvals. As an interim solution, the city is considering a removable “MobiMat” for better accessibility, with the sidewalk’s design and bidding process estimated at eight months, Wepfer said.

City-Sponsored Fireworks Madeira Beach will maintain its fireworks schedule, hosting four events in 2025: March 15 (Rotary Spring Break), May 3 (city event), July 3 (Independence Day), and Nov. 8 (Veterans Day Boat Parade). Recreation Director Jay Hatch confirmed a $30,000 budget and secured a barge for the displays. Shifting the Fourth of July celebration to July 3 has become a local tradition, easing barge availability and traffic while drawing strong crowds. Commissioners noted it allows residents to enjoy Madeira’s event and others the next day.

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