STATE GRANT PROGRAM PROVIDES $542,000 TO GULF COUNTY PARKS

Under the leadership of Governor Charlie Crist and the Florida Legislature, the 2008-2009 budget includes $24 million to expand and improve local parks statewide. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) will grant Gulf County $542,000 to develop and enhance community parks, providing outdoor recreation opportunities and improving public access to Florida's natural resources.
"Outdoor recreation areas and facilities are a vital part of Florida's economy, drawing both Floridians and visitors to experience the state's natural resources," said DEP Secretary Michael W. Sole. "With the support of Governor Crist and the Florida Legislature, FRDAP funding allows Florida cities and counties to develop and enhance local parks while uniting their communities through recreational opportunities."
Gulf County projects funded in this year's budget include:
•City of Port St. Joe, Buck Griffin Lake - The funds will be used for new picnic facilities, fishing pier, bike trail, exercise trail, landscaping and lighting.
•City of Port St. Joe, Frank Pate Park - The monies will be used for renovating the fishing pier, tennis court, playground, parking, landscaping and restrooms.
•Gulf County, Salinas Park - The funds will be used for a new playground, bike trail, pier and picnic facilities; as well as the renovation of a picnic facility, nature trail and restrooms.
•Gulf County, Honeyville Community Park, Phase II - The monies will be used for a playground, bike trail, picnic facilities, baseball field, tennis court, security lights, parking and restrooms/concession stand.