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96th Street Park Opens with Winter Wonderland!

On Sunday, Dec. 15, more than 1,500 Surfside residents and friends eagerly awaited the start of Winter Wonderland to experience the stunningly upgraded 96th Street Park. Years in the making, the fully transformed park enthralled attendees with its striking set of features and spaces which had been reimagined to create a Winter Wonderland feel with ice and snow, a ribbon entrance feature, Nutcrackers, a live Dreidel, and much more.

Mayor Burkett, Vice Mayor Paul and Commissioners Coto, Velasquez and Vildostegui were all on hand to celebrate the momentous occasion alongside neighbors.

Town Manager Mark Blumstein, Police Chief Wayne Holbrook, Parks & Recreation Director Tim Milian and Capital Improvement Projects Director Andre Eugent joined the many staff members who were also in attendance.

The Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony was led by Mayor Burkett and commenced with blessings from Father Sosa from St. Joseph’s Church and Rabi Citron from The Surfside Minyan.

Surfside's Elected Officials spoke joyously of their commitment and vision for the Park which was now fully open and ready to shine. Current and Past Parks & Recreation Committee Chairs Frank McBride and Retta Logan also provided remarks and recounted the hard work and effort entailed by all involved.

During the event, kids and parents enjoyed the sate-of-the-art playground equipment, wide variety of rides, games and vendors, and also indulged in free food. To promote the park’s new kayak launch, attendees even had the opportunity to enter a raffle to win two new kayaks and two paddleboards. 

After a magical event, Surfside’s beautiful new park is now open and available to the entire community.

Thank you to our partners Savino Miller Design and Lunacon Construction. The Town is grateful to the Commission, the entire Parks & Recreation team, Capital Improvements, Public Works, Police and all the people behind the scenes who helped make this facility and event an incredible success!

*Photos by Town of Surfside, Arhlene Ayalin & Tina Paul, Judy Martinez.

NOTE: Please keep reading and scroll down for information on the Temporary Kayak Launch usage guidelines.

96th Street Park Temporary Kayak Launch Access

Effective Tuesday, Dec. 17 the temporary Kayak Launch will operate from 8 a.m. to sunset. Entry and exit to the Launch will be closed at sunset. Please see Park Attendant to gain access to the Kayak Launch.

Proof of Residency is required to gain access to the Kayak Launch (Town of Surfside Parks and Recreation ID Preferred).

Below are the Temporary Kayak Launch Rules:

  • All minors under 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Life Jackets are required at all times.
  • Enter at your own risk. Kayak launch will operate from 8 a.m. - sunset. All persons must return back prior to sunset.
  • Wildlife may be present. You are entering a natural area and wetland preserve.
  • Do not touch or feed the animals.
  • Maintain a safe distance of 30 feet.
  • No fishing.
  • No swimming.
  • Wear non-slip shoes to avoid accidents while on the dock or in the kayak.
  • **Visitors must adhere to all other park rules, regulations and operational guidelines.

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