Dear Park Shore Association Members,
As many of you know, on Thursday and Friday of this past week, Naples experienced the fierce effects of Hurricane Helene. If you were here during the storm, we sincerely hope you and your family are safe and sound. If you were not here during the storm, we hope your property and personal belongings were not significantly affected by the storm.
In preparation for the storm, board members took careful measures in securing the beach park by terminating water flow and electrical service to the park, removing loose debris, safely securing the storage areas, and removing the American flag for its protection.
As a result of the hurricane, Park Shore experienced significant flooding from the storm surge and substantial downing of horticultural debris from the hurricane’s immense wind forces. Thankfully, board members took immediate action to restore our beach park. As soon as the storm passed, our landscapers were called to the beach to assess the damage.
On Saturday, beginning at 8 am, the clean-up of the park began. These first attempts lasted for almost six (6) hours. Most horticultural debris was picked up and hanging limbs removed.
There is still much to do. A tremendous amount of sand was driven by storm surge on to the park, in some areas as much as two feet deep. See photos below. Our landscaping crew will provide a plan of action to deal with the sand removal and landscape repairs.
As restoration efforts continue, we will provide you with updates. At this time, the parking lot, pathways to the beach and restroom facilities are completely accessible. However, please note that the Florida Department of Health in Collier County (DOH-Collier) is advising the public not to enter the water due to the possible increased risk of water-borne illness. Swimming is not recommended.
Despite these hugely damaging outcomes, thankfully Naples was spared the full effects of the hurricane. I am extremely grateful for the immediate care and attention members of the board have taken and are taking on behalf of the community. This is a true testament to Park Shore’s amazingly strong sense of community.
With great appreciation,
Michelle
Michelle McLeod, M.B.A.
PSA Board President