Back in 2002, the U.S. Navy deeded a 33
acre section of waterfront property to Key West. With this acquired land,
the idea for a new park was born, resulting in what will someday be Truman
Waterfront Park. The original plan for the park included many wonderful ideas
including gardens, a harbor walk and a marina with a public pier. The plans also
call for an amphitheater, central park area, community center and multi-use
field. The city was updated recently on the design plans, bringing the park one
step closer to becoming a reality. Truman Waterfront Park will be at the end of
Southard Street, near the USCGC
Ingham Maritime Museum.
The development of Truman Waterfront Park has been almost 14 years in the making. There have been
changes to the original deeded property, which the Navy deemed necessary in
order to protect their military operations close to Mole Pier. The City of Key West formed the Truman Waterfront
Advisory Board to work with the Navy and city departments to ensure a
well-developed and acceptable plan for the park. It is the goal of the city to
create a new community park taking advantage of the waterfront view and
amenities, as well as to bring together the surrounding neighborhoods through
cultural and recreational opportunities, and connecting the people of Key West
with the history of the waterfront directly.
There was question on the available funding for the project brought up at
the recent council meeting where the updated plans were presented. But City
Manager Jim Scholl noted that there has been funding set aside year after year
from capital dollars that the city receives. It is estimated that by October
first of this year, there will be $16,630,000
in designated funds for Truman Waterfront Park. If the plans for the park come
through will full approval, construction is expected to begin by the end of 2015. The focus of construction at the
start will be on the infrastructure of the park and surrounding area, including
existing buildings that are to be repurposed, parking and transportation access
to the park.
When
it is completed, Truman Waterfront Park will be another wonderful place with
spectacular views for Key West residents and visitors alike to enjoy. If you are ready to enjoy
the incredible views of this region for yourself, and are looking
at the Key West area, my team and I are here to help you with finding the home
of your dreams. Please contact me, JimmyLane, for all of your real estate
needs.
Labels: jimmy lane, key west, Truman Waterfront Park
