Reaction has been quite strong to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's plan to add golf courses, pickleball courts and hotels to 10 Florida state parks.
Now, the public has a chance to weigh in — just a few days later than expected.
The department had previously scheduled public hearings on the plans for Tuesday, but they have been pushed back, likely until next week. On Friday, it said it wanted to find "new venues to accommodate the public" due to "overwhelming interest."
It also launched a webpage where members of the public can send suggestions and written comments on the plans.
Due to the overwhelming interest with the 2024-25 Great Outdoors Initiative, DEP is looking for new venues to accommodate the public.
— Florida DEP News (@FLDEPNews) August 23, 2024
We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate. Public input is vital to DEP decision-making. To gather feedback on your favorite… pic.twitter.com/duFLtY3mNg
On Monday, the department announced it was launching a "Great Outdoors Initiative" aimed at expanding public access to the parks by adding outdoor amenities and "provide new lodging options."
The plan has drawn criticism from environmentalists and the public, who say the state should protect the pristine lands.
On Wednesday, the DEP released additional details on plans for 10 parks across the state, including Honeymoon Island State Park in Pinellas County and Hillsborough River State Park. They include:
- Up to four pickleball courts near a beach access at Honeymoon Island
- A disc golf course, along with up to four pickleball courts next to a swimming and bathhouse complex at Hillsborough River State Park
