Florida's environmental agency has unveiled a controversial plan to significantly develop nine state parks, adding amenities like golf courses, lodges, and pickleball courts. This Great Outdoors Initiative has sparked strong opposition from environmentalists, lawmakers, and locals who are concerned about potential habitat loss and commercialization of public lands - arguing that these developments contradict the core purpose of state parks, which is to preserve natural areas and provide opportunities for quiet enjoyment of nature.
In Fiscal Year 2022-23, Florida’s 175 state parks attracted nearly 30 million visitors, contributing to an annual economic impact of $3.6 billion and 50,000+ jobs. Florida's broader outdoor recreation economy generated over $52 billion in economic output and supported more than 460,000 jobs in 2022.
Florida has significantly increased its investment in conserving its natural landscapes, acquiring over 260,000 acres, the majority of which are located within the Florida Wildlife Corridor.
While the initiative aims to boost tourism and revenue, people worry it might come at the cost of environmental integrity. Proponents, however, argue that the planned developments will enhance visitor experiences and generate much-needed funding for park maintenance and conservation efforts.
Image by: Florida DEP
The plans included constructing 350-room park lodges at Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine and Topsail Hill Preserve State Park on Santa Rosa Beach. At Jonathan Dickinson State Park on Florida's Atlantic coast, a 27-hole golf course proposal could lead to significant habitat loss, requiring the removal of the iconic Hobe Mountain observation tower and park staff homes.
Here are the nine Florida state parks included in the "Great Outdoors Initiative" along with the proposed changes:
Jonathan Dickinson State Park:
Public golf courses and other facilities
Removal of the Hobe Mountain Observation Tower
Removal of an existing park entrance, staff residences, and more.
Anastasia State Park:
A park lodge with a 350-room capacity
Up to four pickleball courts
A disc golf course
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park:
A park lodge with a 350-room capacity
Up to four pickleball courts
A disc golf course
Grayton Beach State Park:
Up to 10 cabins
A beach-access restroom
Up to four pickleball courts
A disc golf course
Hillsborough River State Park:
Up to four pickleball courts
A disc golf course
Honeymoon Island State Park:
Up to four pickleball courts
Oleta River State Park:
Up to 10 cabins or glamping space
Up to four pickleball courts
A disc golf course
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park:
Up to four pickleball court
Camp Helen State Park:
Up to 10 cabins or a glamping area
In Tampa Bay, both Honeymoon Island State Park and Hillsborough River State Park could see the addition of up to four pickleball courts, with Hillsborough River also slated for a disc golf course.
The state agency had given the public a mere six days to review the plans before hosting simultaneous meetings across the state on Tuesday, August 27, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. These in-person-only meetings were expected to feature brief presentations followed by public comment periods.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has now postponed these meetings due to "overwhelming interest" to the week of September 2nd, making this announcement on X.
They are seeking larger venues to accommodate the anticipated public participation and ensure everyone has the chance to voice their opinions.
As news of the proposals spread, public outcry intensified. Protesters gathered outside Jonathan Dickinson State Park with "stop the golf courses" signs, while environmental advocacy groups mobilized their supporters through various channels.
Some Republican lawmakers have joined the opposition. Senate President Kathleen Passidomo commented on social media: "Our vision did not contemplate the addition of golf courses and hotels, which in my view are not in line with the peaceful and quiet enjoyment of nature. I am open to other ideas, but from what I know at this time, the proposal should not move forward in its current form."
Senator Jay Trumbull, whose district includes three of the targeted parks, called the proposal "unnecessary development" and expressed strong opposition to the expansion plans.
What are your thoughts on adding amenities to state parks?
Parks are meant for nature
Leave our parks alone
It's only nine parks
I think it's a good idea
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