PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — Citing public health and safety concerns over the coronavirus, the



Pinellas County Commission approved a resolution closing Pinellas County public beaches and public beach parking areas effective 11:59 p.m. Friday. The beaches will be closed until April 6.

The commission also unanimously voted to extend its state of emergency another seven days. The board also approved a resolution asking the state to temporarily close Honeymoon Island State Park including Caladesi Island.

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The announcement was received with mixed reviews by Pinellas County residents.

Janice Knapp said she didn't understand why it is necessary to close the beaches.

"It is very easy to protect yourself while on the beach," she said. "My husband and I were there Saturday and had no one within 10 feet of us. We are in far more danger going to the grocery store than staying to yourself at the beach."

Jim Lovell urged residents not to panic. "If it's for two weeks only then, we will be OK," said Lovell. "Let's don't overreact, people. We're going to fix this."

