Beachgoers dot the white sands of Coquina Beach during the recent warm winter weather. The Coquina Beach concession building remains closed, although food and refreshments are being sold from a vendor truck in the interim. Plans are to open in April. Islander Photo: Mark Young
Recent warm winter weather caused an eruption of multi-colored beach umbrellas to suddenly blossom across the white sands of Coquina Beach, a reminder that peak beach season is not far away.
Hopes were high to have the renovated Coquina Beach concession building in Bradenton Beach open by the end of January to greet beachgoers through the tourist season. However, ongoing renovations to the 40-year-old structure and a need to train staff has pushed the grand opening back to early April.
According to Manatee County Parks and Recreation Department director Cindy Turner, the bulk of the renovation has been completed.
Turner said the county has invested $350,000 in capital improvement funds to modernize the building with an additional $110,000 being funded by United Parks Service Inc., the agency which is doing the interior work.
“All of the $110,000-plus in improvements purchased by UPS will become property of the county once a certificate of occupancy has been issued,” said Turner who noted the county is overseeing the construction progress. “UPS tells us that they should be ready for a grand opening celebration by early April.”
Modernizing the 40-year-old building has been a significant effort, according to Turner, who said both the floor and roof were raised 18 inches.
Improvements also include a new state-of-the-art metal roof, storm-resistant windows, stainless steel countertops, new air conditioning and new electrical wiring.
Other new features include a wood serving deck, unisex bathroom, and new tables, chairs and umbrellas. The interior was basically gutted, and all new cooking and serving equipment is being installed, said Turner, who noted that minor work and the issuance of the certificate of occupancy is the only delay.
“(UPS) wants at least 30 days after getting the certificate of occupancy and to complete their finish work for an operational shakedown that will allow staff to get used to the new equipment, structure and point-of-sales system,” said Turner.
Turner expects the certificate of occupancy to be issued by March, at which time staff will begin their training in anticipation of peak tourist season, which begins in the weeks before Easter.
