Dunedin considers expanding options for golf carts

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Golf carts are getting more and more popular in the Bay area, and because of that many communities are looking at ways to expand their use.

One of those locations is the city of Dunedin, which is surveying its residents to see what kinds of golf cart changes they would like to see.

Residents Amy and Jason Williams say they took the survey in hopes of seeing some more options.

“My wife and I have both been huge golf cart advocates," Jason said. "It’s one of the contributing factors we fell in love with Dunedin to begin with."

The couple says carting around Dunedin is a perk that makes the city attractive to a lot of folks, especially when it cuts down on driving a car.

“We love the freedom," Jason said. "We were a two-car family. Now we’re one car — the cart is our second car."

Dunedin city officials say they are now looking at adding some new amenities, including charging stations, parking and more crossings on state roads like U.S. Alt 19 and State Road 580 (Main Street).

“Preserving that small town community vibe is most important to me," Amy said. "The accessibility for golf cars will only improve that."

Right now, there are two golf cart crossings on U.S. Alt 19 and one on State Road 580, and officials say adding additional ones would require state approval. Amy says more crossings would be a big help in getting around.

“Sometimes it’s like playing Frogger now to cross,” she said.

Golf carts can be driven on roads in Dunedin that have a speed of 30 mph or lower. They can only cross state or county roads that are designated by a sign. They are not permitted on sidewalks or the Pinellas Trail.

The survey is still open to Dunedin residents. The city will also be holding public meetings too discuss any changes. For more information, visit Dnuedin's Golf Cart Infrastructure Plan website.