parks and beaches

Flagler County, Florida, plans to close some of its beachfront parks in 2026 to make way for a golf tournament. The closures would limit public access to popular shoreline areas during the event, and local coverage is highlighting the tension between hosting a major sporting event and keeping beaches open to residents.

September has been designated Tobacco-Free Parks and Beaches Education Month, a campaign aimed at raising awareness about the harms of tobacco use in public outdoor spaces. Local health officials and community organisations are using the month to encourage smoke-free parks and beaches and to educate residents about litter and secondhand smoke concerns.