Bradenton Beach residents got to see the damage firsthand from Hurricane Milton as they were allowed back on their beloved Gulf island community Friday morning.
Longboat Key Bridge, which links Bradenton Beach with Longboat Key, reopened Friday afternoon.
Anna Maria Island, a popular vacation spot known for its pristine beaches, cafes and gorgeous sunsets on the Gulf of Mexico, remained closed Friday. Local police said they expect Anna Maria to open on Saturday.
Holmes Beach, just north of Bradenton Beach, also remained closed Friday.
Bradenton Beach opened only to homeowners, business owners, insurance company employees and city workers, Bradenton Beach Police said Friday.
Take a look at the damage done to Bradenton Beach and other parts of Manatee County:
DeSantis and his team visit
Long lines for food, gas
Trees down, debris up
Fishing village slammed
Historic Black community hit hard
Piece of ‘Old Florida’ gone