TDC approves nearly $89,000 for Knights Marina fishing‑pier repairs after hurricane damage

The Clay County Tourist Development Council on March 4 approved $88,830 from TDC reserves to pay for fishing‑pier amenities and handrails at Knights Marina, citing safety and public‑facility considerations.

Parks Director Justin Pierce explained that hurricanes in 2022 damaged the marina bulkhead and seawall and that the overall restoration project for the ramp would cost about $830,000. He told the council that Florida boater‑improvement funds can cover the motorized‑ramp portions of the project but specifically exclude some recreational elements such as the fishing pier; the TDC funding request covered those excluded elements. Pierce said the county owns the property and has a management agreement with Black Creek Marina for operations.

Commissioners asked whether the marina improvements primarily served local residents or also supported tourism. Staff acknowledged much of the current marina use is local boating but argued that repaired public facilities and signage could support future tourism and event uses. Several board members said TDC reserves are healthy but asked staff to draft a plan for strategic use of reserves in future cycles.

The motion to approve the $88,830 TDC contribution passed in a public vote. Staff said a recognition plaque and county signage acknowledging Clay County support could be included as part of implementation.

Speakers quoted in this story are identified as they appeared in the meeting record.