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“Idle Speed No Wake” zone coming to Water Street Boat Ramp

On Tuesday morning, the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners approved an ordinance to establish a new “Idle Speed No Wake” zone in the vicinity of the Water Street Boat Ramp in Fort Walton Beach. There is already a no-wake zone near the boat ramp. This ordinance basically expands the zone to about 400 feet south […]

Jared Williams

On Tuesday morning, the Okaloosa Board of County Commissioners approved an ordinance to establish a new “Idle Speed No Wake” zone in the vicinity of the Water Street Boat Ramp in Fort Walton Beach.

There is already a no-wake zone near the boat ramp. This ordinance basically expands the zone to about 400 feet south of the current boat ramp.

In August, the county purchased property that is adjacent to the boat ramp to help with parking, turnaround and stormwater issues. One of the stipulations of the purchase included establishing this no-wake zone.

It’s worth noting that the “stipulation” made sense to County staff as the current zone did not encompass and/or protect the boat ramp.

“This is all part of trying to create some better water access at the Water Street Boat Ramp,” said Commissioner Trey Goodwin. “I think it will be really good for residents in multiple districts, not just for District 2 or District 4. Anybody who really needs access to our waterways, this is going to help with that.”

Additional planned improvements include:

Addressing the stormwater runoff from Water Street onto the adjoining property.
Ensuring a sign is posted prohibiting any commercial activity.
Lighting the property and maintaining a safety light at the boat ramp.
Naming the boat ramp “Helen’s Landing”/Water Street Boat Ramp.
Installing a 6ft wooden fence along the property line in conjunction with the development of the parcel or within 24 months, whichever occurs first.

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Mike Ciolino commented on SS United States artificial reef project remains on track despite temporary delay

“Thanks Jared for a concise factual article. Too much false narratives floating around social media.”

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Chris commented on ‘GENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY’: Okaloosa County sets sights on Eglin AFB orphan parcels for development

“Thee is no such a thing as affordable housing for over half the people that live in this area. People can’t afford 300, 400 or 500k for a house. Build...”

“That portion has been closed because of wild hogs destroying it, I believe”

Kevin Jones commented on ‘GENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY’: Okaloosa County sets sights on Eglin AFB orphan parcels for development

“Got make up for the 10 mill purchase of the SS United States and getting fined 1k a day while it still sits in port”

Terence R Porch commented on ‘GENERATIONAL OPPORTUNITY’: Okaloosa County sets sights on Eglin AFB orphan parcels for development

“Follow the $. It's highly probable the developers have a military connection. And "affordable housing" is a sad case of smoke and mirrors.”

Richard Burkart commented on Okaloosa School District breaks ground on new Pineview School in Crestview

“Why not give the actual location of the new school, but from the little you gave on that point, I'm "assuming" that it will, like just about nearly every school...”

Hrntphxr commented on Twin Cities Hospital marks 45 years of growth with $46 million in recent improvements

“Is HCA Twin Cities able to provide cardiac care?”

John commented on Florida acquires 2,483 acres for new Walton County state park

“It is amazing on one hand Walton county will purchase 2,000 acres for a state park and claim it is all about the enviroment amd protecting the Florida Black Bear...”

Max commented on Florida acquires 2,483 acres for new Walton County state park

“Here goes all our natural Woods & Wild Life . Next thing you know they'll be building Businesses. And Gas Stations . And Big Houses .”

Ernest L Anderson commented on Florida acquires 2,483 acres for new Walton County state park

“It would be nice to know where it will be located. What about designs and will it have primitive camping or a combination of RV sites. What, no artist rendition?...”