Bagdad Mill project seeks public input

Bagdad Mill site project seeks public input

From staff reports
January 6, 2010

The public is invited to view conceptual designs and give input on the design phase of the Bagdad Mill Site Park Project on Saturday, January 15. The meeting happens 9 to 11 a.m. at Bagdad Elementary School, 4512 Forsyth Street in Milton.

Project representatives will be on hand to answer questions and collect public input on design features of the park, which will help set project priorities and shape the overall look of the park.

The Bagdad Mill Site Park conceptual design includes a .45 mile walking trail, a trailhead facility, an entertainment pavilion, a kayak launch, fishing pier, and other amenities.

The design phase is being funded with Coastal Partnership Initiative Grant Funds which are made available to the Florida DEP's Coastal Management Program from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and local match from district 2 recreation funds.

The park is expected to be built in phases over several years based on funding availability, with construction of the first phase targeted for 2012.

The 21-acre Bagdad Mill Site, located at the union of Pond Creek and Blackwater River in Bagdad, was previously the location of the Bagdad Land and Lumber Company Saw Mill which operated from 1835 to 1939. More recently, the property was used to manufacture pre-stressed concrete products and asphalt paving material.

The site was acquired by the State of Florida Board of Trustees in 2000 and was leased to Santa Rosa County for development in 2004 as a passive recreation area. In July 2010, demolition of the dilapidated structures located on the property began.

Various state and federal grants are being targeted to fund a majority of the park project, with support from district two recreational funds, tourism funds and the State of Florida Office of Greenways and Trails. For more information visit www.santarosa.fl.gov/parks or contact Sheila Harris at (850) 983-1848.