City updates Pier 60 repairs and launches tree planting program in Clearwater

The City of Clearwater Parks & Recreation Board convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss several key updates and ongoing projects, particularly focusing on recovery efforts following recent hurricanes.

The meeting began with an update on Pier 60, which reopened to the bait house on March 1, allowing public access for fishing and sunset viewing. The board reported that the bait house repairs are underway, with a guaranteed maximum price of $299,000 for internal repairs. This will facilitate the return of fishing pole rentals and merchandise sales. Plans to extend access to the pier westward to the T were also discussed, with temporary railings to be installed to ensure safety. Three options for permanent repairs to the pier will be presented to the council in the coming months, including the possibility of a frangible deck designed to withstand wave action.

The board also addressed preparations for the upcoming storm season, which begins on June 1. Improvements to the emergency operation plan are being made based on lessons learned from the previous season. The budget for the upcoming year will remain flat, with no increases anticipated, as the city aims to maintain service levels.

Additionally, the board discussed a grant application to the U.S. Tennis Association for the McMullen Tennis Complex, which suffered damage during recent storms. The grant, amounting to $40,000, is in the final stages of approval, and the city expects reimbursement for repairs through either FEMA or the USTA.

A new dashboard for the city’s capital improvement projects is set to launch within the next couple of months, enhancing transparency regarding ongoing projects and budgets. The Long Center Natatorium project was also highlighted, with plans to address pool leaks and upgrade the facility.

The meeting concluded with updates on environmental initiatives, including a recent cleanup of parkland that removed 120 yards of debris and the upcoming tree planting program at Delaware Park, which will introduce 14 new trees of various species. Plans for landscape replacements at Clearwater Beach and Memorial Causeway are also in progress following storm damage.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to recovery, environmental stewardship, and community engagement as it prepares for future challenges.