Wrightsville Beach is home to some of the most beautiful stretches of sand anywhere - but right now, not everyone can reach it. For residents and visitors with mobility challenges, the soft sand at our access points is an obstacle.

Many coastal communities - including Carolina Beach, the Outer Banks and even towns as far as Madison, CT - have installed seasonal "mobility mats" that roll out over the sand, creating a safe and stable path to the shoreline. These mats open the beach to everyone. 

And this isn't just aobut tourists - it's about our neighbors right here in Wrightsville Beach who deserve the same access to enjoy the ocean they live beside. A smart place to start is at access points that already have handicap parking, so accessible parking actually leads to an accessible beach. 

If they can do it, why not here?

A beach that's accessible for all is a stronger, more welcoming community. A local group has kickstarted this initiative, but I really think our town should step in and finish the job. Let's take this step forward for Wrightsville Beach.