Fidelis Park public meeting Tues., May 21 at 6 p.m.

Santa Rosa County is seeking public input regarding future improvements to Fidelis Park. A public meeting will be held on Tues., May 21 at 6 p.m. in the Fidelis Park cafeteria, 13774 Hwy 87 N. in Jay, to inform and engage the community regarding planned recreation improvements and long term community and recreation program needs. 

Fidelis Park, located on approximately 8.5 acres, currently offers the following amenities:

Tennis court.

Baseball, softball and pre-tee ball field.

Basketball court.

Picnic pavilions.

Playground.

Walking path.

A Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant has been awarded to the county to undertake recreation improvements to the park. Improvements will include expansion of the existing baseball field, renovations to the basketball and tennis courts, additional picnic facilities, a standalone, two-user family-style restroom, an all-abilities playground and accessibility improvements. Residents are encouraged to provide feedback regarding potential improvements in the future, which may include development of a functional community center, improvements to the historic school building and additional recreation program enhancements. Public input is vital to ensuring that future investments in Fidelis Park meet the needs of the community. Those who cannot attend may submit comments in writing via the online survey.

 “I look forward to seeing you at the public input meeting so I can listen to your ideas on how we can work together to enhance Fidelis Park for all our residents,” said District 3 Commissioner Don Salter.

County staff along with representatives from Mott MacDonald will be in attendance to present information and gather feedback. Using the feedback from the public meeting and written comments, the county will further develop plans for a future phase of improvements. For more information on the project, contact Sheila Fitzgerald, grants director, at (850) 981-2016.