Crystal River officials seek state help for wastewater plant upgrade, Hunter Springs seawall and expanded boat-launch parking
Summary
Crystal River requested state funding to help finish a phased wastewater-treatment plant upgrade (roughly $24M total, $12M secured so far), to rebuild a seawall at Hunter Springs Park to prevent spring-vent clogging, and to expand boat-launch parking at Ford Island Trail.
City of Crystal River officials told the Citrus County delegation they are seeking state help to complete a multi-year wastewater-treatment upgrade, rebuild a seawall that protects spring vents at Hunter Springs Park, and expand parking and ramp capacity at the Ford Island Trail boat-launch site.
City representative Audra Kurtz said the wastewater-treatment plant upgrade is a multi-phase project estimated at about $24 million; the city and grants have gathered approximately $12 million so far and are seeking further state support in phases. Kurtz said the city is pursuing phased funding and will accept smaller appropriations toward the total when available.
Kurtz said work planned by Save Crystal River to clear spring vents near Hunter Springs Park has highlighted a long-term problem: a previously removed seawall allowed white sand to wash in across the springs and now contributes to vent blockages. With manatee season ending, the city said rebuilding a seawall to protect the springs is urgent; Save Crystal River and the city expect to contribute funds but asked for any available state help.
On recreational access, Kurtz described two city ramps that suffer from parking constraints and flood-related deterioration. The city is coordinating with county staff to expand parking and potentially add ramps at the county Ford Island Trail launch and seeks state support where possible.
Why it matters: Crystal River’s requests relate to public-health infrastructure (wastewater treatment), environmental protection for springs used by residents and visitors, and public-access improvements for a tourism-dependent economy.
Approvals and coordination: Kurtz said the city’s proposals have been considered and approved at the city level and that the county will also place joint projects on its agenda.
