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St. Petersburg Expands Greenspace with $2.9 Million Purchase

Newly acquired greenspace along Salt Creek, aimed at enhancing community and flood management.

News Summary

St. Petersburg has officially approved the acquisition of nearly three acres of vacant land along Salt Creek for $2.9 million. This initiative aims to enhance the city’s greenspace while addressing flood management issues. City Councilmember Gina Driscoll envisions the area as an opportunity for community beautification and stormwater management. The new greenspace will extend Bartlett Park with features such as walkways and landscaping, while also serving as a protective barrier against flooding, particularly in areas historically prone to such issues.

St. Petersburg Expands Greenspace with $2.9 Million Salt Creek Property Purchase

St. Petersburg has taken a significant step towards enhancing its greenspace and tackling flood management challenges by approving the acquisition of nearly three acres of vacant property along Salt Creek. This decision comes as part of the city’s broader strategy to provide a natural refuge amidst rapid urban development, ensuring residents enjoy both beautiful surroundings and functional environmental protection.

A Vision Realized

City Councilmember Gina Driscoll has long envisioned the potential of this vacant land, which is strategically situated along the creek. She sees it as an opportunity to not just beautify the area but also to play a crucial role in managing water flow during storm events. Recently, the city council gathered during a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss this initiative, leading to the approval of an offer for a smooth $2.9 million purchase of three adjoining parcels. The seller had recently reduced the asking price from $3 million, making it an opportune moment for the city to act.

Understanding Property Values

Interestingly, the property appraiser’s website lists the market value of this land at approximately $731,302. However, official city documents peg its value closer to $2.88 million. Despite the differences in valuations, City Administrator Rob Gerdes successfully urged the council to proceed with the purchase, emphasizing a focus on strategic planning over public negotiation with the seller.

What’s in Store for the New Greenspace?

The newly acquired land will significantly extend Bartlett Park, integrating essential features such as walkways, lighting, benches, and lush landscaping along the bustling 4th Street corridor. With parcels separated by Salt Creek, the city intends to transform them into a serene marshland preserve, showcasing native plants and trees, including the beloved St. Augustine grass.

Not only will this park enhance community enjoyment, but it will also serve a vital role in flood prevention. It will act as a protective barrier for homes located west of the park, particularly in an area historically prone to flooding issues, notably experienced during Hurricane Milton. Moreover, a planned pump station that initially was to be situated in Bartlett Park will make its new home in this greenspace.

Flood Management Innovations

Furthering the flood management strategy, a water control gate will be constructed upstream, designed to close during high tides, effectively managing water levels in both Salt Creek and Lake Maggiore. Additionally, a force main pipe will be installed to transport excess water from the gate directly to the new pump station, ensuring minimal tidal impact during heavy rainfall.

Community Education and Funding Insights

The park isn’t just a practical solution – it’s also an educational initiative. Plans include the incorporation of QR codes and informative placards throughout the area, educating residents about effective flood management practices. This thoughtful addition underscores the city’s commitment to fostering an informed community as they adapt to their ever-changing environment.

As for the financial plan behind this acquisition, the funds are drawn from the Weeki Wachee funding, which stems from a previous property sale. In a notable 2021 transaction, St. Petersburg sold the Weeki Wachee property for an impressive $15.9 million, allowing the city to reinvest those proceeds into enhancing parks and greenspaces.

Next Steps for Approval

While the city council has approved the purchase in principle, a final approval for using the Weeki Wachee funds for this specific property is still necessary. All eyes are on the council as they consider this vital step towards achieving Gina Driscoll’s vision.

With progressive city planning and an eye toward fostering a sustainable environment, St. Petersburg is making all the right moves. The excitement is palpable as residents look forward to enjoying a new park that will not only serve as a recreational area but also as an integral piece of the community’s flood management strategy.