PALM COAST – Lehigh Trail, one of Palm Coast’s most widely liked public amenities, is set to receive a set of renovations to enhance its facilities.
The renovations will be done at the Belle Terre Parkway trailhead, located just north of the Fire Station and Town Center Publix location. The major changes coming to the trailhead include:
- Paved parking with over 60 spaces, including disabled access
- Restrooms
- Water fountains
- Community gardens and pavilions
- Dog park
- Lighting improvements
Beginning January 23rd, the existing dirt parking lot and paved sidewalk at the trailhead will be closed so renovations can begin. The city government expects construction to wrap up by this November.
The project will be paid for largely by a $1.24 million grant from the Florida Department of Transportation. Other parts of the funding are being covered by the local half-cent sales tax and impact fees paid by developers. The city is hoping for a local spending surge to bolster taxpayer funds for this and similar amenities, the chief purpose of its Be Local, Buy Local campaign.
It marks the first major amenity improvement project for the new City Council; the dynamic of the body changed considerably when members Eddie Branquinho and John Fanelli gave way to Cathy Heighter and Theresa Carli Pontieri.
Chris Gollon is a Flagler County resident since 2004, as well as a staple of the local independent music scene and avid observer of Central Florida politics, arts, and recreation.
