Developer Jay Odom donates $50,000 toward 4-mile multi-use path on Okaloosa Island

The Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a $50,000 donation from developer Jay Odom on Tuesday, September 18, 2024, to support the ongoing construction of the Bridge to Bridge Multi-use Path.

• The path, spanning over 4 miles, will connect the Brooks Bridge to the Marler (Destin) Bridge along Okaloosa Island. It will provide a paved surface safely situated away from US 98, offering a protected route for cyclists and pedestrians.

Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel expressed her excitement about the in-motion project during the meeting. “I was headed to Destin the other day and I got tears in my eyes because this involves five years of work from our county commission and our staff as we negotiated with Eglin Air Force Base,” Ketchel said.

The project, which broke ground on July 8, 2024, features innovative photoluminescent technology. The path will incorporate glow-in-the-dark rocks that heat up during the day and emit a sky-blue color at night, enhancing visibility and safety for users.

Ketchel highlighted Odom’s contribution, describing him as a “community visionary and developer” who had promised the donation if the path was built. “I just think it’s remarkable that somebody cares this much about our community, that they’re willing to donate $50,000 for the bike path,” she added.

The multi-use path is primarily (and fully) funded through an allocation from the State of Florida and funds from the Tourist Development Department. Odom’s donation will be directly applied to the project’s construction expenses.

• Commissioner Nathan Boyles suggested exploring ways to use the donation for additional amenities, such as bench seating, to further enhance the project.

The path’s construction is part of a larger effort to improve safety and recreation in the area. When completed, it is expected to significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries along the busy US 98 corridor.