Let’s Talk (240229) – Around the Mound: City of FWB Update

Welcome back to the Let’s Talk podcast, where we keep Northwest Floridians connected with local leaders. In this week’s episode, Schuyler Black and Bobby Dewrell sit down with City Manager Jeff Peters to discuss the latest updates and developments in the City of Fort Walton Beach.

Catching Up with City Manager Jeff Peters

It’s been a few weeks since Jeff Peters has been on the show, and he’s excited to be back to discuss the latest happenings in the city. Here are some key highlights from the conversation:

• The Landing Project: The first phase of the Landing Project is wrapping up, with the amphitheater grading set to open on March 28th. The project includes a new concrete boardwalk, lighting, seawall, and T-Dock, bringing a fresh upgrade to the area.
• Future Plans: Once the stage is built and the amphitheater is graded, the city plans to introduce new restrooms and other amenities closer to the street. A kickoff event with a live band is also in the works to celebrate the completion of the project.
• Golf Cart Parking: The city has plans to convert the concrete slab previously used for the Science Center into a golf cart parking lot, catering to the community’s needs and enhancing accessibility to downtown businesses and restaurants.
• Pop Tab Collection: The city is actively participating in a pop tab collection for the Ronald McDonald House, aiming to give back to the community and support families in need. There’s a friendly rivalry between Fort Walton Beach and Destin to see who can collect the most pop tabs.
• Upcoming Events: The city is planning a water battle event in collaboration with the fire department, as well as ongoing discussions about the Around the Mound project and its potential impact on downtown revitalization.

Around the Mound Project

The Around the Mound project is a hot topic of discussion, with different alternatives being considered for the future development of downtown Fort Walton Beach. Here are some key points about the project:

• Community Input: The city is seeking input from residents, property owners, and stakeholders to gather feedback on the different alternatives proposed for the Around the Mound project.
• Pros and Cons: The project manager, Mr. Bruner, highlighted the pros and cons of each alternative, emphasizing the need for community involvement in the decision-making process.
• Future Vision: The project aims to create a vibrant and exclusive downtown area that attracts talent, fosters growth, and enhances the overall appeal of the city.

Traffic and Infrastructure Updates

As the city prepares for the upcoming spring break season, city manager Jeff Peters shared some reminders for local residents and visitors:

• Bridge Construction: Despite ongoing construction on the Brooks Bridge, the traffic flow remains consistent. The city is committed to completing the project and addressing traffic concerns for the long term.
• Community Support: Jeff Peters emphasized the importance of community support for ongoing traffic and infrastructure projects, highlighting the need for collaboration and shared vision for the city’s future growth.

Conclusion

The Let’s Talk podcast continues to serve as a platform for open dialogue and community engagement, allowing local leaders and residents to come together and discuss the latest developments in the City of Fort Walton Beach. Stay tuned for more updates and insights in the next episode.

Thank you for listening to the Let’s Talk podcast, brought to you by Omni Broadcasting and Emerald Coast Connected.

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