LAND

Through this initiative, we aim to create and sustain beautiful green spaces in Northeast Florida by collaboratively reviving parks, creeks and other public green spaces, while taking a balanced approach to ensure the inclusion of those in underserved communities. We are currently working to revive several parks in Jacksonville’s urban core. Through corporate partnerships and collaboration with local stakeholders, we are working to revive these parks to include new playground equipment and improve park access, safety, and usage for the community.

The Public Trust spearheaded the critical conservation of the River Branch Preserve, 350 acres of wetland and islands along the intracoastal waterway.

In 2018, the Public Trust was instrumental in coordinating the conservation acquisition of the Selva Preserve Property. The City of Atlantic Beach purchased this property under an agreement that will greatly reduce wetland impacts while still allowing the developer to build 5 single family homes on the upland portion of the property.  This is the type of win-win solution that the Public Trust strives for. We also have received a private donation to be used for the creation of a greenway through the preserve for the public to enjoy. Selva Preserve is one of the few remaining undeveloped properties left in Atlantic Beach; conserving it will provide vitally needed habitat and stormwater benefits for the surrounding community.

The City of Atlantic Beach is currently exploring the purchase of the Johnston Island property, located under the Atlantic Blvd bridge on the Intracoastal Waterway. The Public Trust is coordinating this conservation purchase with interested parties including the City of Jacksonville. Johnston Island has the potential to become an important recreational resource for boaters, kayakers, and fishermen utilizing the intracoastal waterway.