Pensacola: Bayfront Parkway Opens to Bikes/Pedestrians in June

DATES: Sunday, June 13th
Sunday, June 27th
TIME: 9:00am to 6:00pm
PLACE: Bayfront Parkway, from intersection of Barracks Street to intersection of Chase Street

BLUF:
Pensacola’s most unique asset is its waterfront, particularly the downtown waterfront. The more opportunities people have to enjoy it, the more they are reminded what a great place Pensacola is.

However, Pensacola residents rarely have real access to their waterfront. They can zoom past it on Bayfront Parkway or Scenic Highway. They can go to a few parks. But most of the waterfront is cordoned off for people who can afford to own water views. Opening Bayfront Parkway to pedestrians and cyclists provides opportunities for Pensacola residents to enjoy their beautiful waterfront with the added benefit of bringing people from across the community together, encouraging them to exercise and meet their fellow Pensacolians.

The Pensacola City Council and staff have agreed to test the idea of to two trial closures, to be held on Sunday, June 13th and Sunday, June 27th. If people demonstrate they want this type of recreational access to the downtown waterfront, the Council will consider how to make this a regular occurrence.

The plan is to block off Bayfront Parkway from Tarragona/Barracks Street to Chase Street. People can walk, bike, skateboard, or rollerblade on the road. This stretch also includes two large park areas - Veterans Park and Seville Square - which may accommodate related activities.

INFORMATION:
For further information, please contact mpratt@ci.pensacola.fl.us