The City of Atlantic Beach has opened its reimagined lifeguard station, a significant enhancement to the city's commitment to public safety along its beautiful coastline. While keeping the core of its William Morgan design intact, this modern facility designed by Cronk Duch Architecture and Planning will provide Atlantic Beach lifeguards with improved resources and capabilities, further ensuring the well-being of residents and visitors enjoying the ocean. 

Located at the Ahern Street beach access - which has a new dune walkover, to boot - the new lifeguard station replaces an aging structure and boasts a range of upgrades designed to optimize response times and lifeguard effectiveness. City officials unveiled the lifeguard station at a May 20 ribbon cutting. "Today we gather not just to cut a ribbon but to open a new chapter and how we protect and serve those who enjoy this beautiful coastline of ours," said Mayor Curtis Ford.

Key Enhancements 

• Improved Visibility: The modern designs offer lifeguards panoramic views of the beach, crucial for spotting swimmers in distress. 
• Expanded First Aid and Emergency Response Capabilities: Dedicated areas for medical supplies, equipment, and initial treatment, allowing for more efficient and effective on-site care. 
• Increased Storage and Operational Space: Ample room for essential lifeguard equipment, including rescue boards, ATVs, and first aid supplies, promoting better organization and readiness. 
• Comfort and Accessibility: Designed with the comfort and operational needs of lifeguards in mind, including improved facilities and accessibility, new restrooms and shower facilities, and a multi-purpose flex training area. 
• Improved Public Beach Access: Designed with two publicly available accessible parking spaces along with a public shower, walkway, and dune walkover to the beach. 
• Historic Significance: The new structure was built with a nod to its original design. 

The lifeguard station was built by ACON Construction Co. The project had significant oversight and involvement by Police Chief Vic Gualillo and City Engineer Steve Swann. 

"It's designed for efficiency and built to support the people who put their lives on the line every day to keep beachgoers safe," said longtime lifeguard Capt. John Phillips. "More than that, it's a place of potential. It's a place where future lifeguards will be trained, where local youth might get their first introduction into public service, and where teamwork and dedication will continue to thrive. It's an investment in both infrastructure and in people." 

Funded in large part by the City of Jacksonville, the construction of the new lifeguard station underscores the City of Atlantic Beach's ongoing dedication to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all beachgoers. Beachgoers are encouraged to swim near lifeguard-protected areas and adhere to all posted beach safety flags and instructions. 

About the City of Atlantic Beach

The City of Atlantic Beach (est. pop. 13,513) has a strong sense of belonging and safety. Our citizens and government care deeply about community character, and we understand that unified support is required to preserve it. We are graced with the functional beauty of our beach, our marsh, and our tree canopy. Our shady streets and multi-use paths connect our welcoming neighborhoods and vibrant local businesses. Our city supports our diverse, multigenerational, socially linked community with green spaces, active lifestyles, parks, and programming. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean (to the east), the Intracoastal Waterway (to the west) and Hanna Park (to the north), Atlantic Beach is considered by many to be the most desirable place to live in Northeast Florida. For more information, visit coab.us and connect on Facebook.