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Published on January 15, 2025
St. Johns County Earns Resiliency Award for Innovative Shoreline Restoration ProjectSource: St. Johns County

St. Johns County received a Resiliency Award from the Northeast Florida Regional Council for its investment in the Alpine Groves Park Shoreline Restoration Project. The project, which cost $908,681.29, involved designing, permitting, and constructing a rock revetment to stabilize the park’s shoreline against erosion and rising water levels.

According to the St. Johns County release, Beth Payne, CEO of the Northeast Florida Regional Council, commented, "There continues to be engaging and transformational work happening across Northeast Florida. It is an honor to celebrate those projects and initiatives that enhance local communities in the region."

A video produced by the Office of Public Affairs highlights the completion of the project. Ryan Kane, Parks and Recreation Director, expressed satisfaction, stating, "Alpine Groves Park is one of the jewels of the St. Johns County park system, and this project was vital to keeping it for future generations to enjoy," in the same release.

The project is praised for using nature-based solutions, setting a positive example for future regional development. Project Manager Tim Connor acknowledged the support from the Board of County Commissioners, St. Johns County administration, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Public Works, INTERA Inc., and S.E. Cline Construction. He described the project as a result of a collective partnership.

The Resiliency Award was presented at the 21st Annual Regional Awards for Excellence and Elected Officials Luncheon on Thursday last week. As per the release, Nathan Otter, Natural Resources Superintendent, highlighted the project’s impact, saying, "By stabilizing the shoreline, we are safeguarding the park and its amenities, ensuring that they remain a space for everyone to enjoy. St. Johns County is proud to be recognized with the Resiliency Award from the Northeast Florida Regional Council for this important project."