People with disabilities unhappy with Volusia, Flagler beach access rules

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A resident is voicing her frustration with the restrictions being put on beaches as they slowly reopen.

The beaches in Flagler and Volusia counties are limited to exercise, and all the parking lots are closed too. In Flagler County, there are also limited hours you can access the beaches.

Lisa Orcutt, who suffers from multiple sclerosis has not been able to enjoy the beaches, saying the restrictions are “definitely not handicap-friendly.”

She said that the restrictions make it difficult for people like her who have a hard time moving around without a wheelchair or cane, or who just want to sit on the beach.

“It’s certainly not helping with the depression and everything else in my life,” Orcutt said. “I’ve been so sick for so many years that I’m just getting to the point to do this, and everything shut down and we are all on quarantine.”

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Flagler Beach officials say they may temporarily open up some parking spaces to people who are handicapped if the need arises. It also has a ramp and wheelchairs people can use.

Volusia County chairman Ed Kelley said he wants people to have more access to the beach, and plans to discuss that with the county manager this week.

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