How exciting to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the re-opening of J.Earle Bowden Way this morning, the scenic road which connects Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach.
Media from all around attended the ceremony...
to document an event we've been waiting on for over four years
Mr. J. Earle Bowden himself attended the ceremony and was one of the ribbon cutters.
County Commissioner Grover Robinson IV was also in attendance, as were many other dignitaries and members of both Pensacola Beach and Navarre Beach Chambers of Commerce.
I spied tiny Miss Carleen Wheeler behind the big boys.
A car full of tourists from Iowa happened upon the re-opening and were very happy at their luck, as you can see.
For the first time in four and a half years, I was able to drive my vehicle from Opal Beach back home to Pensacola Beach...and it was only nine miles down the road for me! I don't think you can imagine how excited I am.
On another positive note for our businesses, I stopped by Island Style this morning after the ribbon-cutting ceremony and happened to meet a lovely gentleman also shopping in the store. He seemed familiar with the island and I asked if he was a local. He once lived in Villa Sabine, on the west end of the island, but now lives in the Navarre area. Today he drove over on the re-opened road, did a bit of shopping at Island Style, and was meeting up with a couple of old friends for lunch on Pensacola Beach!
The re-opening of J. Earle Bowden Way will be a boon for both communities. The scenic drive is not to be missed if you are visiting the area. My mother has already made me promise to drive her over to Sailors' Grill for a sticky bun next time she visits, as well as the Panhandle Butterfly House in Navarre; those in Navarre can much more quickly attend Pensacola Beach events or visit our local restaurants.
What a great day!
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