Dunedin Protests Pickleball Courts at Honeymoon Island: Dozens of demonstrators lined up at the entrance of Honeymoon Island State Park this weekend to voice their opposition to a state proposal that would add pickleball courts, lodges, and other amenities to at least nine parks across Florida. Michelle Birnbaum, one of the event organizers, explained the group’s position: “They’re proposing the addition of pickleball courts here at Honeymoon Island, which is not something anyone asked for. The reason we come out here is because it is incredibly beautiful, and peaceful.” The park is also home to a number of plant and animal species.
Park Advocates Speak Out
Erik Cantie, an avid parkgoer, added, “We have areas where you can hike to see eagle’s nests, owls, ospreys; no one who comes to visit this gorgeous park, which is perhaps one of the most visited parks in the entire state, comes out here and asks where the pickleball courts are.” Cantie and Birnbaum are leading local efforts through a group called “Protect Honeymoon Island State Park,” which has gained over 2,000 members in just a few days. Cantie further commented, “Even the pickleball players don’t think it’s a good idea. That’s something we found out on our Facebook group page. Everyone was like, ‘watch out for the pickleball players, they’re coming for you.’ But it’s just not true. Everyone is like, you know, I don’t want to play pickleball on the beach.”
Local Officials Weigh In
Dunedin City officials support the demonstrators’ stance. In a statement following the release of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s plans, they noted: “Honeymoon Island, the most visited state park in Florida with more than one million visitors a year, is known for its pristine beaches and natural habitat. It is clear, given the number of visitors a year, the park should remain just the way it is.”
Florida DEP’s Response
In response to the public outcry, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has postponed meetings about the proposed changes that were originally set for this week.
The DEP’s initiative, dubbed ‘The Great Outdoor Initiative,’ aims to improve park facilities but faces criticism from those advocating for the park’s preservation. Angela Grannan, an environmental consultant and real estate broker, suggested alternatives: “I understand the need to protect the natural areas, conserve them; and I also understand the desire to progress and develop. The two just don’t really align. Maybe you can find these areas that are more underutilized and closer to city centers that provide accessibility for others, instead of natural areas.”
Upcoming Meetings
The rescheduled meetings are expected to occur during the week of September 2, though exact dates have not yet been announced.
News in Brief: Dunedin Protests Pickleball Courts at Honeymoon Island
Dunedin residents are protesting a state plan to introduce pickleball courts at Honeymoon Island State Park, citing concerns over preserving the park’s natural beauty and wildlife. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has postponed discussions on the proposal due to significant public interest. Advocates suggest considering alternative, less sensitive locations for new amenities. Meetings to address these concerns are now scheduled for the week of September 2.
ALSO READ: Honeymoon Island and 9 Parks Eye Pickleball and Golf Course Upgrades
