Miami’s spoil islands will not reopen for Fourth of July

MIAMI – Miami’s four spoil islands will not reopen Thursday for the Fourth of July and they will remain closed until further notice, the city of Miami confirmed Wednesday.

According to a news release, the temporary closures of Osprey Island, Morningside Island, Pace Picnic Island and Willis Island, on Biscayne Bay, remains in place “in an attempt to further disallow contamination and littering throughout the bay and the islands.”

The spoil islands have been closed since Memorial Day weekend.

“The Miami Police and Parks and Recreation Departments are collaborating to raise public awareness about the detrimental impacts of littering and will enforce existing laws and regulations,” the news release stated. “This is a temporary measure to evaluate and restore the natural beauty in our City and our waterways.”

Miami police told Local 10 News days after the spoil islands initially closed that conditions on the islands have been noticeably different.

“It was clean,” MPD Marine Patrol Lt. Oriel Tameron said. “I saw marine life.”

Anyone trespassing onto the islands will be subject to arrest and city officials say the police department’s Marine Patrol unit will “enforce zero-tolerance measures against those seen trespassing.”

“On March 14, 2024, the City Commission enacted the ‘Leave No Trace’ legislation,” the news release stated. “This new policy represents a significant step forward in promoting responsible recreation and environmental stewardship on Biscayne Bay and safeguards the delicate ecosystem long-term.”

Boaters are urged to seek alternate destinations for the time being.

City officials say signage will be posted at the four spoil islands and measures will be taken to restrict access.