Surf's up!

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm

Reporter - News Analyst

September 3, 2019 - 12:23 p.m.

No problem finding a parking space at Main Beach today.  A mid morning drive around the island under sunny skies and stiff breezes revealed many properties along South Fletcher boarded up and lots of available parking at beach access points.  Many people were enjoying the beach as spectators, not swimmers, sunbathers or surfers.  Police are making sure that no one enters the water.  Fernandina Beach Fire Chief Ty Silcox was surveying the scene at Main Beach, along with a Channel 47 news crew.

City crews have pushed beach sand westward from the high water mark in an attempt to protect dunes and structures.  City Maintenance and Utilities vehicles are out on the roads at this time, monitoring the effects of tides and winds.  Florida Public Utilities has prepositioned trucks at one of the beach access parking lots already anticipating clean up needs.  Advanced Disposal trucks are out on their normal Tuesday trash pick up runs.

While there continues to be lots of activity on Sadler Road and A1A 200, from the Parkway Grille south to the southern end of Amelia Island is mainly deserted.  FPU tree trimmers were also working along the Parkway near the Amelia Island Plantation. Harris Teeter is still doing a brisk business, but all gas stations from Harris Teeter south are boarded up and closed. 

Publix and Winn-Dixie remain open at this time, along with many local eateries.  Call ahead to make sure, if you are planning to eat out.

High tide is forecast for 1:00 p.m. today.