Parks Foundation Invests in Accessibility with Beach Mat Project

The Parks Foundation of Palm Beach County, Inc. (Parks Foundation), in partnership with Florida Power & Light (FPL) and the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department (PBC Parks), hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Ocean Reef Park to celebrate the launch of the Beach Access Mat Project.

This Parks Foundation-led initiative enhanced ADA accessibility and expanded beach access for residents and visitors of all abilities. The project included installing five new beach access mats at DuBois Park, Ocean Cay Park, Ocean Reef Park, Phil Foster Park, and South Inlet Park, creating safer, more convenient pathways across the sand for individuals with mobility challenges, families with strollers, and visitors of all ages. Plans are also in place to install additional mats at Ocean Inlet Park on the lagoon side and at Jupiter Beach Park, further expanding accessible beach access throughout the county.

"This project demonstrates what is possible when public agencies and private partners come together with a shared commitment," said Jennifer Cirillo, Director, Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation Department. "By improving access to our beaches, we ensure more people can experience the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make Palm Beach County special."

"We were able to match the donation that FPL gave us to execute this beach mat project. We're thrilled to do this public-private partnership with corporate donors like FPL and with Parks and Recreation to allow accessibility to people who otherwise might not be able to see our beautiful parks system," said John J. Gorski, President, Parks Foundation of Palm Beach County, Inc.

"Today doesn't just represent a new amenity. It represents access and safety for our community. You didn't just put mats on the sand - you opened doors to the ocean," said Amy Kemp, External Affairs Manager, FPL.