Okaloosa County commissioners voted Tuesday to purchase approximately 229 acres of land along the Shoal River for $757,535, aiming to provide public access to over 2,000 acres of existing county-owned property that is currently inaccessible.
- The acquisition includes two parcels east of Highway 85, primarily north of the Shoal River. The property features about 27.5 acres of upland area that will be used as a park entrance and to connect with existing county lands.
Deputy County Administrator Craig Coffey presented the proposal, describing it as “the icing on the cake that really opens up the doors of things that you have already done as a board.”
The land purchase is part of a broader county initiative to diversify tourism offerings and provide recreational opportunities for residents. Coffey noted that while tourism infrastructure in the north end of the county is in its “infancy,” this project aligns with plans for nature-based and eco-tourism activities.
- “This property has large, mature trees and provides a good example of the beauty of north end woodlands,” Coffey said. He added that the site would likely not be suitable for large events due to sewer limitations and restricted vehicle access.
Potential uses for the property include walking and equestrian trails, paddling, river access, land navigation events, and nature races. The site may also accommodate parking, restrooms, and picnic pavilions.
Commissioner Nathan Boyles expressed support for the acquisition, stating, “These types of strategic acquisitions are, I think, an excellent way to continue to work to preserve in perpetuity land in Okaloosa County for a variety of purposes.”
The property consists of two contiguous parcels owned by Haiseal Timber. The purchase price reflects approximately $5,500 per acre for upland areas and $3,000 per acre for wetlands.
Funding for the $850,000 total project budget, which includes property acquisition and master planning, will come equally from tourism development taxes and federal American Rescue Plan Act interest funds.
- “We’re continuing to make a way for public lands to be accessed by members of our community and guests that come,” said Chairman Paul Mixon. “I see this as a tremendous benefit moving forward.”
The purchase is contingent upon favorable appraisals. Commissioners approved the acquisition unanimously, with closing expected in November.
