The Fort Walton Beach City Council voted 6–1 Monday night to move forward with improvements at Liza Jackson Park, awarding a $3.1 million construction contract that will bring major upgrades to the city’s popular waterfront boating destination.
City leaders approved the contract with H&T Contractors, LLC, the lowest responsive bidder, to complete a series of upland improvements aimed at improving access, parking, and infrastructure at the park. Construction is expected to begin after August 1, 2026, to avoid disrupting peak summer boating season.
The project includes a new elevated restroom building, expanded and reconfigured boat-trailer parking, improved vehicle circulation, sidewalks, and stormwater upgrades. However, the discussed boat ramp replacement remains on hold pending federal approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
City officials said the decision to move forward now reflects frustration with delays in the permitting process.
“We wanted a new boat ramp, but since that required Corps permitting… There has been no progress on it,” said Public Works Director Daniel Payne. “Instead of just sitting and waiting… we decided with the upland improvements, we can go ahead.”
The $3.1 million project will be funded primarily through the city’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) restricted fund balance, which currently sits at approximately $4.8 million. The city also anticipates a $1 million contribution from Okaloosa County, along with additional reimbursements tied to other redevelopment projects.
While the council broadly supported the improvements, some members raised concerns about the park’s internal traffic flow, particularly how trucks and boat trailers will navigate tight turns near the launch area.
Council member Payne Walker questioned design changes that eliminated a previously proposed north-side exit and warned that certain turning movements could be difficult for larger vehicles.
City staff acknowledged the concerns, noting that design changes were influenced by permitting requirements from the Florida Department of Transportation and other agencies. Officials said they would revisit the layout to ensure functionality.
The project also reflects rising construction costs since early estimates were discussed in 2023. Walker pointed to the increase from an initial projection of around $2 million to more than $3 million, excluding the future boat ramp.
“The market’s always going to dictate it,” Payne said. “I’m always hesitant to give a number.”
Because of the park’s low-lying elevation, the new restroom facility will be raised above grade to meet flood and drainage requirements, an added cost, but one officials say is unavoidable.
Looking ahead, council members also discussed the need for long-term maintenance funding, particularly as out-of-county boaters continue to use the facility. Some expressed support for future user fees to help offset upkeep costs.
Despite the challenges, council members praised years of coordination between city and county leaders that brought the project to this point.
Construction is expected to take approximately 180 days once underway, with completion projected in 2027.
Pro Communi Bono
St. Francis De Sales, Ora Pro Nobis!
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