Plans for a proposed public park called Historic Santa Rosa Landing were recently announced by Waterside Investors, LLC. The plans call to create a park and boat access to Choctawhatchee Bay at the site of Old Town Santa Rosa at the end of 13th Street in Santa Rosa Beach.

“South Walton has many crown jewels, and the Choctawhatchee Bay is one of them,” said Dave Rauschkolb, longtime resident, business owner and community activist in South Walton. “The boat park at Historic Santa Rosa Landing would create a family-friendly place to enjoy the natural beauty of the bay, something much-needed in South Walton.”

In addition to the boat ramp, proposed park amenities include numerous public recreation opportunities including nature paths, a fishing pier, boardwalk and dock, a lodge building for use by community groups, a community garden and 24-hour security surveillance, as well as boat trailer and general parking.

There are also plans to provide covered boat storage for residents, a service not currently available in South Walton.

“This is a unique opportunity to create a lasting legacy for generations to come,” said Chick Huettel, local historian. “The chance to share the early history of this special place and preserve the land for a public park is something residents and visitors will be excited about and something we should all act upon right now.”

Local residents are encouraged to contact the Walton County Board of County Commissioners to voice their support for the proposed park. More information about Historic Santa Rosa Landing is available at HistoricSantaRosaLanding.com, including a rendering of the proposed park plan.