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The City of New Smyrna Beach, in cooperation with the Marine Discovery Center (MDC), celebrated with the public the grand opening of the Indian River Lagoon Preserve Park from 4:00 to 6:00 PM on Tuesday, January 30, 2007. Following remarks by Mayor James Vandergrifft, the Southeast Volusia Chamber of Commerce performed the ribbon cutting ceremony at 4:30 PM. The park is located at 663 Sandpiper Avenue, west of Saxon Drive on the beachside. MDC will assume some responsibility for the security of the remote location. They will open and close the facility, monitor, and supervise activities in the park. In exchange for these services, MDC will utilize the park as an extension of the marine, environmental, and educational programs currently offered at their N. Causeway location. The pristine 190+/- acre park is a true example of old Florida hammock land filled with native vegetation and wildlife. The St. Johns River Water Management District deeded the property to the City and construction on the project began March 28, 2005. The Indian River Lagoon Preserve Park was funded through grants from the Land & Water Conservation Fund of the U.S. Department of Interior; Florida Department of Environmental Protection Agency; Florida Communities Trust through Florida Forever; ECHO Grant Program through Volusia County; and the City of New Smyrna Beach. Of the 190+/- acres, two acres were developed to construct a covered pavilion with restrooms, a drinking fountain, a portable classroom, and limited parking to maintain the natural beauty of the area. Walking trails throughout the park allow for up-close inspection of plant, bird, and wildlife species. Some of the trails are concrete and the remainder is stabilized, but remains natural with a shell base. Informational signs will be installed to allow visitors to search for the varying plants, reptiles and wildlife that are found throughout the park. A fishing dock, canoe/kayak launch and observation deck overlooking Brown’s Bay provide recreational opportunities for the general public. For more information, contact the Parks & Recreation Department at 386-424-2175 or the Marine Discovery Center at 386-428-4828.
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