Coquina Beach Controversy

If you’ve cruised the 7 mile stretch of beach that makes up Anna Maria Island in one of our Polaris Gem Car beach buggys, then you’ve probably noticed the shade canopy on Coquina Beach,  provided by the Australian pines that line the area. The community loves these pines. In the summer we need shade and these pines give us the cool reprieve from the sun we desperately desire.

Controversy has arisen after a proposed 100 trees have been planned for removal with the first phase of a county drainage and parking lot improvement project. County commissioners came together along with Bradenton Beach Mayor, John Chappie to derail the removal of these trees.

“The city of Bradenton Beach is adamantly opposed to the trees being removed. We are extremely hopeful the county will not follow through with such a disturbing act that would change the great character of Coquina Beach.” – John Chappie

Tree removal has been postponed until county commissioners review a comprehensive staff report.