Friday storm causes airport damage; forces temporary Dog Park closure

Submitted by Susan Hardee Steger
June 7, 2014 2:59 p.m.

A Friday evening storm rocked Amelia Island and caused a number of power outages and downed trees. One hard hit area was the Dog Park located on Airport Road near the City of Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport. Fallen trees have forced the closure of the park until Wednesday.

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According to Tom Cristenson, executive director of the Nassau Humane Society, “Eleven trees went down between the dog park and animal shelter. No animals were hurt in any shape or form, and no damage was done to the buildings.” Strong winds lifted a carport on the premises that then settled 150 to 200 yards away from its original location.

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Dog Park Kennels

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Fernandina Municipal Airport
File Photo Courtesy of Suanne Thamm

Mickey Baity, a member of Friends of Fernandina Aviation, reported damage at the airport as well. A portion of  Island Aviation’s hangar doors were blown into the hangar and some roof damage occurred. It appeared to Baity that repair work was underway.