The Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners voted Tuesday to approve more than $1.3 million for new playground equipment and signage at Marler Park on Okaloosa Island.
- The board authorized $1,237,213.08 for playground structures and $73,769.65 for new playground signage, to be purchased from GameTime.
Charlotte Dunworth from the Tourist Development Department presented the proposal to the board, describing the project as a complete overhaul of the existing playground, which has fallen into disrepair.
“The goal for this park is to make it a one-of-a-kind destination in South Okaloosa County that invites children of all ages to play in a safe environment,” Dunworth said.
According to Dunworth, the current playground equipment is limited and worn, with deteriorating rubber flooring. The new design will expand the play area, combining spaces that are currently separate and adding structures to vacant areas.
- The approved funds will cover playground structures, safety surfacing, sail shades, installation, benches, coastal coating, and signage including appliques, panels, and graphics.
Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel expressed support for the project, saying, “This is a great use of our tourism development dollars.” She emphasized that these funds are specifically designated for such improvements and cannot be used for other purposes like road repairs.
Ketchel also highlighted the broader improvements happening on Okaloosa Island.
- “This whole area down there is really getting an interesting facelift. There’s picnic pavilions, interconnected trails with Veterans Park, [and] we’re getting the new bike path,” she said. “Okaloosa Island’s about ready to see some amazing things happen there. In the 10 years I’ve been here, I can’t believe everything that is happening.”
Commissioner Mel Ponder highlighted the dual benefit of the project.
- “These are the wins that you’re very grateful for…that not only can tourists take advantage of, the locals as well,” Ponder said. “It’s going to be the only park of its kind on the [Okaloosa] Island.”
The timeline for the project anticipates a four-month manufacturing period after the purchase order is issued. The park is scheduled to close for demolition in November, with installation of the new playground beginning in January 2025. The anticipated completion date is March 1, 2025.
Dunworth also mentioned that a splash pad for the area is part of the five-year plan, responding to an inquiry from Commissioner Ketchel.
The funds for these improvements were included in the FY 2024 budget, with $1,250,000 allocated in the Capital Projects Fund and the remainder available for transfer from wayfinding/signage in the Tourism Fund.
Renderings of the proposed new playground
