Environmental activists staged a protest outside the grand opening of Ocean Terrace Park in Miami Beach on Saturday, warning that sewage leaks and runoff threaten public health and marine life.
The demonstration led by People Opposed to Ocean Pollution, or P.O.O.P., coincided as city leaders, residents and visitors gathered inside the park to celebrate with speeches and a ribbon-cutting. Officials hailed the project as a milestone for the north shore, offering new recreational space and scenic views for the community.
Protesters carried signs, costumes and their voices to draw attention to water quality concerns. They called on city officials to take stronger action to address what they consider a growing environmental problem.
“I got an ear infection from swimming in polluted waters in the ocean,” said P.O.O.P founder Larry Shafer. “I had blood coming from my ear, I lost hearing and now I have permanent tinnitus ringing in the ear from the polluted water.”
While the park opening marked a new chapter for the community, the conversation around clean water shows that protecting the environment remains a top priority for residents.
