Public feedback shapes Destin’s ambitious 5-15 year vision for city development
Destin, Florida – The Town Center Master Plan, a comprehensive roadmap for the future of the city of Destin revealed during the December 16 Destin City Council meeting, marks Destin for a radical make-over. Presented by Synalovski Romanik Saye (SRS), the proposal aims to transform numerous important parts of the city, therefore improving community life and safeguarding of Destin’s rich legacy.
Developed through considerable community involvement including in-person meetings, a digital survey with 301 participants, and conversations with local stakeholders, the master plan presents a vision for the next 5 to 15 years. It includes notable changes to the Morgan Civic & Recreational Complex as well as the establishment of a Historic Gateway District.
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The Morgan Civic & Recreational Complex is the center of the proposal. Emphasizing natural light and contemporary office spaces, plans for this region include for a new 30,000-square-foot City Hall reflecting a Florida vernacular and nautical theme. Two basketball courts, multipurpose rooms, a youth game room, and other amenities to assist community events also occupy a 40,000-square-foot community center. Preserved pickleball courts, new outdoor sports courts, moved dog parks, a skate park, food truck parking, and a fitness track will augment the recreational options.
The Historical Gateway District wants to honor Destin’s fishing background. It suggests turning the current community center site into a “Fishing Village” featuring a new history and fishing museum, reproduction of historical buildings, and bait and tackle gift shop. Additionally included in the area will be a 300-space parking structure to assist in harbor operations and offer venues for public events and meetings.
Beside this district, the recently acquired Harbor One site close to the Marler Bridge is destined to be a quiet leisure space. Designed to be flexible in future changes related to FDOT easement needs, this waterfront area will include a gently sloping landscaped area leading to the water, a boardwalk with seating areas, a small performance platform, hammock areas, picnic shelters, and opportunities for sunset viewing.
With $43 million committed to the Morgan Civic & Recreational Complex and $22.5 million to the Fishing Village of the Gateway District, the master plan overall shows a possible investment of around $65.5 million. This financial planning includes backup plans to cover unanticipated events and market swings.
This enormous project is a model for community-driven development since it not only seeks to improve the quality of life for Destin’s citizens but also celebrates the city’s historical relevance.
More details about the proposal are available here. To see photos of the project, click here.
