The Joe’s Bayou/Mattie Kelly Improvement Project is moving forward with construction expected to begin in September 2025, according to a timeline presented at Monday’s Destin City Council meeting.
- Public Information Director Tamara Young delivered an update from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) outlining the project‘s progress and upcoming milestones.
Funded through the NRDA Final Restoration Plan RP-1, the $12.2 million project will transform the waterfront site with improved boat ramp access, expanded parking areas, enhanced nature trails, and new recreational facilities. Plans include a new boat trailer parking lot, mooring dock, restrooms, picnic pavilions, and improved fishing pier.
The project has completed several key phases including field investigations, public outreach, and conceptual design work. The DEP permit has been secured, though the project still awaits approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE).
- According to the timeline, once the COE permit is received, likely in February or March, the project will advance to 90% design completion. The plans will then be submitted to the city’s Development Department for a Development Order.
Construction bidding is scheduled for May through July 2025, with substantial completion anticipated by February 2027. The total construction period is estimated at 18 months.
Young noted that several factors could affect this schedule, including the timing of the COE permit, feedback from the Parks and Recreation committee and City Council, Development Order conditions, and bid amounts staying within budget constraints.
The public can continue to monitor project updates through the dedicated website at joesbayoudestin.com, which will remain active throughout the construction process.
