Beach Closures After Hurricanes Cost Englewood Businesses Winter Season Profits

Englewood Beach's closure following hurricanes Helene and Milton has decimated winter tourism revenue.

Charlotte County hasn't announced when they'll reopen. Teams need to demolish damaged buildings and put up safety barriers before inspections can begin.

SunLife Beach Hotel guests are disappointed at the lack of beach access. They've also noticed a decrease in bookings because of the beach closures.

“This year is the first time that we have a room open every other couple of days,” Ana Pearl, owner of SunLife Beach Hotel, told Wink News.

Local shops and restaurants struggle to keep their doors open while beach access remains blocked.

County officials suggested opening part of the beach with a walking path and portable bathrooms. This compromise looks to help businesses survive while keeping visitors safe. Crews must follow strict FEMA guidelines before allowing people back on the beach.

“Once we get the demo done, we get some fencing up, then we'll bring risk back out to be able to evaluate and make sure that they concur that we are at a position of having a safe facility be able to open back up to the public,” Tommy Scott, Charlotte County's community services director, told Wink News.

In Englewood, business owners eagerly await updates from the county.