CRYSTAL RIVER, Fla. — People are once again able to hit the water to kayak in Crystal River. The city re-opened public kayak launch areas this weekend.
- Kayak companies able to rent kayaks
- Kayak launches open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- More Citrus County stories
“Extremely glad," said kayaker Rebecca Schmalstig. "We’ve just been stuck up at the house for weeks.”
Kayak companies are also able to rent but for now are still not doing tours.
Those companies have not been able to operate for a month since the city shut down for-profit tourism in March.
“It’s not as usual business," said Chris Doucette with Hunter Springs Kayaks. "However, it is nice — it’s nice to be back and working again. We were four weeks out of work, you know. We’re happy to be out here ourselves.”
Crystal River Mayor Joe Meek shared a Facebook video shortly before the kayak launches opened this weekend, saying the decision was made with guidance from the health care professionals.
“As we did when we closed down a lot of the park systems, we sought input and guidance from the health department and we’re doing the same thing as we’re opening things back up," Meek said. "I can’t wait to get it back open and I’m excited that we’re starting that process but it has to be in a responsible manner."
The kayak launches are open from 9 a.m. -5 p.m. The city is also expected to open parks on Wednesday, with hours and some activities still restricted.