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Commissioners allocate surtax reserves for Santa Rosa Boulevard design and grant‑sidewalk projects
Summary
Okaloosa County approved $400,000 in surtax reserves to complete design work for Santa Rosa Boulevard improvements and $330,000 for two FDOT LAP sidewalk projects and a pedestrian bridge repair.
The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners on Aug. 19 approved surtax reserve allocations to advance two transportation projects: $400,000 to finish design for the first phase of the Santa Rosa Boulevard improvements, and $330,000 to cover shortfalls on two state grant sidewalk projects.
Public Works interim director Scott Bitterman explained the Santa Rosa Boulevard funding will allow staff to complete 100% plans for the project segment from the first Peach Park to the Brooks Bridge. The project includes pedestrian safety upgrades, drainage improvements and a 14‑foot multiuse path. Florida Power & Light is preparing a cost estimate for burying electric and communications utilities; if those costs are significant staff will return with options.
The $330,000 allocation supports two Local Agency Program (LAP) grant projects — South Avenue (James Lee Road to Highway 85) and Stillwell Boulevard (Highway 85 to Monterey Road) — where construction cost escalation left a local match shortfall. Funds will also help repair a wooden pedestrian bridge near Walker Elementary on Stillwell Boulevard.
The surtax advisory committee recommended both allocations; commissioners voted unanimously to approve budget transfers and the reserve uses.
Ending: Staff said the Santa Rosa Boulevard project remains phased pending utility‑burial cost estimates; the sidewalk projects will move forward once budget and FDOT agreements are finalized.
