- September 26, 2024
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Paddling enthusiasts can now rent kayaks and paddleboards at Waterfront Park and access the Intracoastal Waterway using the park's new concrete boat ramp and floating dock launching pad.
"The community has spoken, and today, their dreams are realized," Palm Coast Parks & Recreation Director James Hirst said during an Aug. 18 ribbon-cutting ceremony for the park's latest enhancements.
Visitors can paddle to or from the park in kayaks, canoes and rowboats. Workers have also added QR code information stations and new landscaping and updated the Children’s Memorial Garden. The $1.2 million park renovation began in November 2022 and was funded by a three-part FIND grant, city-generated impact fees and capital funds, according to a news release from the Palm Coast city government.
“It’s beautiful. Can’t wait to use it," Palm Coast resident Aloha Van Jasinski said at the ceremony.
Mayor David Alfin highlighted key features of the expansion.
"We've included a beautiful patio area with endless opportunities for recreation,” Alfin said. “And we've fortified the shoreline with upgraded landscaping and added updated QR stations throughout the trail so you can learn more about the park on your cell phone."
Watercraft rentals from self-service PADL rental kiosks start at $25 per hour. Paddlers also can sign up for a $30 monthly membership.
PADL, a watercraft rental company based in Key Biscayne, has entered a revenue-sharing agreement with Palm Coast: PADL will receive 80% of rental revenue, while the city will receive 20%, according to the news release. The city plans to add a second PADL rental station at Long Creek in the next two to three months.
Waterfront Park's newly renovated Children’s Memorial Garden, created in 2010, serves as a memorial for parents to remember children who have died.
"It is one of the purest spots in Palm Coast, a place to soften the sadness for visitors looking for a quiet place of peace,” Alfin said.
Mike Pino of Saboungi Construction, the jobsite superintendent for the Waterfront Park renovation project, has also worked on the Indian Trail Sports Complex, Heroes Memorial Park, Ralph Carter Park and Seminole Woods Neighborhood Park.
“I built this park from day one, and am also a resident of Palm Coast,” Pino said. “I put a lot of love into this project, and I’m very proud of how it turned out.”
