PBA Talks Spring Break Traffic, Transportation, Safety

Pensacola Beach Advocates President Rhonda Dorfman Updates Membership

As Spring Break begins, Pensacola Beach is seeing a sharp increase in traffic and visitors, with officials addressing public safety, transportation, and enforcement concerns ahead of peak activity.

Traffic exceeded 20,000 vehicles on Saturday, Feb. 28, according to local officials.

The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office has added two permanent deputies to beach operations, Lt. Barnes said. Increased staffing is intended to support public safety during periods of high visitor volume.

Unlike Bay County, which includes Panama City Beach, Escambia County does not implement seasonal ordinances specific to Spring Break. Existing regulations remain in effect, including a countywide curfew that prohibits unaccompanied juveniles from being out past 8 p.m. unless traveling to or from work. Alcohol sales remain restricted, and consumption of alcohol in public parking lots is prohibited.

Ongoing construction has contributed to traffic congestion. On Feb. 28, the temporary removal of construction barrels combined with a red tollbooth signal caused confusion among drivers. Escambia County Traffic Engineering later confirmed the signal issue had been resolved.

Escambia County Commissioner Ashlee Hofberger said both traffic lanes will remain open during Spring Break.

“Our engineering team has worked hard to ensure that both lanes remain open during Spring Break,” Hofberger said. “After Spring Break, minimal lane enclosures will be required for safety. Both lanes are expected to be fully operational by the end of May.”

PBA encourages officials to create a public service campaign to promote the free beach bus service scheduled to begin on Memorial Day. Hofberger is expected to record a public service announcement in support of the effort.

Discussions are underway with the Santa Rosa Island Authority regarding potential amendments to the interlocal agreement governing trolley service. Proposed changes include earlier weekend start times and expanded service from Thursday through Sunday during peak summer periods.

Animal control enforcement remains a concern, as no animal control officer is currently assigned to Pensacola Beach. Santa Rosa Island Authority Executive Director Mike Burns confirmed that the previous contract was not renewed.

Residents who need to report illegal parking or quality‑of‑life disruption issues are encouraged to contact Escambia County non‑emergency dispatch at 850‑436‑9630.

Short‑term rental regulations also remain under discussion. Despite data indicating that short‑term rental units now outnumber homesteaded properties on the beach, the SRIA Director has maintained opposition to additional regulations.

Local advocates continue to monitor state legislation related to homesteaded property taxes and property ownership issues affecting coastal communities.

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