Pinellas County Unveils Stay and Play Promotion Amid Hurricane Preparations

News Summary

Pinellas County has launched the Stay and Play promotion, offering financial incentives for longer stays in St. Pete–Clearwater, with gift cards of up to $100. This initiative runs through May 2025, coinciding with the approach of Hurricane Milton, which has prompted evacuation orders and precautionary measures for community safety.

Pinellas County officials have announced the launch of a new promotion called Stay and Play aimed at encouraging visitors to book trips through Visit St. Pete–Clearwater. The initiative is designed to reward travelers who commit to longer stays in the area amid preparations for Hurricane Milton.

The Stay and Play promotion offers financial incentives to visitors: those who book a two-night stay will receive a $50 digital gift card, while guests who stay for three nights or more will be rewarded with a $100 gift card. This promotion is available for bookings made through VisitSPC.com/Stay and will run until May 19, 2025.

The promotion coincides with local attractions, giving guests enhanced travel experiences that include access to renowned beaches, vibrant art scenes, and Michelin-recognized dining options. Travelers can take advantage of these offers until July 1, 2025.

Amid the promotion, Pinellas County is also responding to the imminent threats posed by Hurricane Milton. Evacuation orders have been issued for long-term care facilities, assisted living facilities, and hospitals located in evacuation zones A, B, and C, affecting approximately 6,600 patients. Furthermore, voluntary evacuation orders are in place for residents in zones A, B, and C, including mobile home residents.

Forecasts indicate that Hurricane Milton may bring life-threatening storm surges, localized flooding, and hurricane-force winds to the region. As a precautionary measure, Pinellas County schools have been closed through Wednesday, and the county has initiated emergency procedures, which include opening shelters and providing sandbags for residents seeking to protect their properties.

In light of the hurricane, Pinellas County government offices, parks, and the Supervisor of Elections will operate under adjusted hours to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. Authorities are continuing ongoing assessment and response efforts as Hurricane Milton approaches.

Following the storm’s impact, Pinellas County officials anticipate reopening barrier islands and lifting the mandatory evacuation orders. However, caution remains essential as residents may encounter power outages and debris in the aftermath of the hurricane.

Additionally, the economic aspect of the county is a crucial point. The county’s financial commitment to the new Rays ballpark is linked to revenue generated from tourism development taxes, which play a significant role in supporting critical economic development projects in the area. The Rays organization has raised concerns regarding potential delays in county bond approval, warning that such setbacks could postpone the stadium’s opening by as much as a year, likely leading to increased costs surpassing the original budget.

This promotion, in conjunction with emergency response measures, reflects a multi-faceted approach taken by Pinellas County as it works to bolster tourism while ensuring public safety amid natural events like Hurricane Milton.

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Additional Resources

• I Love the Burg: Stay and Play Promotion
• Florida Politics: Hurricane Milton Preparations
• Fox 13 News: Pinellas County Shutdown
• ESPN: Rays Ballpark Financing Approved
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane