Commission unanimously approves $750,000 purchase to expand Turnbull Creek conservation corridor

The New Smyrna Beach City Commission unanimously approved a $750,000 purchase of a 7.3-acre parcel adjacent to Turnbull Creek, a move officials said will create a contiguous wildlife corridor and strengthen the city's case for wildlife crossings on nearby roads.

Tony Miller, the city’s natural resources manager, presented the purchase agreement, saying, "It is a 7.3 acre property located between State Route 44 and Jungle Road." Miller said appraisals on the parcels ranged from $729,000 to $740,000 and the city reached an agreement to buy the land for $750,000.

The purchase fills what Miller described as "the hole in the donut," linking conservation properties to the north and south and creating a contiguous corridor from Page Road north to Pioneer Trail. He said the acquisition improves the city's ability to request wildlife crossings from DOT and county authorities because it establishes public ownership on both sides of the road.

Commissioners discussed the conservation value of the parcel before voting. After the motion and second, the city clerk called the roll; every voting member supported the purchase. Miller noted the city will have about $4,700,000 remaining in the Turnbull fund for future acquisitions.

The vote was recorded as an approval of the purchase; the commission did not attach additional conditions to the agreement during the meeting. The city will proceed with closing and integration of the parcel into its conservation holdings.