Fort Lauderdale steps up beach rules as spring break gets underway
As spring break gets underway in Fort Lauderdale, the city is implementing a couple of rules to help manage the expected surge in beachgoers and student visitors.
City leaders have made it clear that rowdy behavior will not be tolerated and the measures are to help keep everyone safe.
"From our past experience, we see that the kids are here to really enjoy themselves. It's a promise that we make to their parents and their families that we want to provide a safe setting for them. We are going to enhance police enforcement and police presence on the beach. We have our mounted patrol that will be walking up and down the beach. It will be fun but at the same time there will be guideline and guardrails that we are going to enforce," Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis said.
The rules are in effect through Saturday, April 12, for high traffic areas of the beach.
Fort Lauderdale's spring break measures
First of all, no coolers, tents or tables will be allowed on the beach. Also, no live or loud music.
The restrictions apply to the beach from the 900 block of Seabreeze Boulevard to the 700 block of N A1A.
The city said no alcohol will be allowed on the beach in this zone except in front of authorized hotels.
City leaders said there will be an increased police presence along the beach and other areas. There will also be increased enforcement in the entertainment areas from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.
Some businesses on the beach said earlier this month that they are ready to welcome the crowds and the measures should help keep things under control.
"We're expecting a good time, a lot of people from all over the country. Lauderdale is iconic. The Elbow room is an iconic spot but we're used to it. It should be a lot of fun, hopefully, doesn't get too rowdy," Paul Lungi, with the Elbo Room, said.
Each day there will be a beach sweep and cleanup at 5:30 p.m. along with stepped up beach enforcement from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
