Dunedin city commissioners are set to consider an ordinance that would permanently ban the launching of motorized watercraft, such as jet skis and boats, from the shoreline at Dunedin Causeway.
The south side of the causeway has been closed since sustaining damage during Hurricane Milton in 2024. Repairs have been underway, and many residents expected the public beach and launch area to reopen as it existed before the 2024 hurricane season. Instead, city leaders are weighing whether to make the closure to motorized launching permanent.
City Manager Jennifer Bramley addressed the proposal at a workshop on June 2, saying that during the closure the area has seen a resurgence of sea grass and native wildlife, along with a reduction in parking and trash issues.
The causeway has long been a popular spot for jet ski riders and boaters. Randy Cabrera, CEO and founder of Florida Ski Riders, said the area holds personal significance for him and his family, describing it as a place where generations have gathered to relax, not just to launch watercraft. Sean Spencer, who works with Cabrera, echoed that sentiment, calling the area important to him.
Cabrera and Spencer have been urging the city to reconsider the ban. Spencer started an online petition opposing the closure that has gathered more than 2,500 signatures. He argued that any stretch of coastline closed for an extended period would show similar ecological improvement, pointing to Honeymoon Island as a comparison.
Cabrera said banning motorized launching at the causeway would add pressure to already crowded boat ramps elsewhere in the area.
City leaders say they have also heard from groups highlighting the environmental and safety concerns associated with motorized shoreline launching at that location.
Cabrera and Spencer say they hope to work with city leaders on a compromise that would allow motorized launching to continue at the causeway.
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