VERO BEACH — Indian River County has closed on three environmentally sensitive properties bought with money from the $50 million Environmental Bond that voters approved in November 2022.
The voter-approved acquisitions are the most recent development in the county’s effort to buy and protect land that aids restoration of the Indian River Lagoon, protects drinking water sources, preserves natural areas and provides habitat for wildlife.
“The citizens of Indian River County should take pride in the legacy they have chosen to leave for future generations,” County Commission Chair Deryl Loar said.
The three parcels are:
- Hale Grove, a 21.89-acre parcel on U.S. Highway 1 about a mile north of the Wabasso Causeway, or State Road 60. The county paid $2.54 million.
- Durrance Place, an 11.74-acre site east of U.S. Highway 1 and roughly a mile to the north of the Wabasso Causeway. Purchase price was $1.26 million.
- Osprey Estates, a 15.47-acre site south of the Gifford dock along 45th Street and fronting Indian River Lagoon. It cost $1.64 million.
The county will enhance habitat at each site to help the lagoon and add trails and other low-impact features for residents to use for passive recreation, according to plans.
Beth Powell, director of parks, recreation and conservation, credited the nine-member Environmental Land Acquisition Panel for its work. The board-appointed group reviewed every nominated property and recommended which ones to buy first.
“A debt of gratitude goes to the Environmental Land Acquisition Panel, a nine-member BOCC appointed group that dedicated personal time and energy to the review all of the nominated properties,” Powell said.
County Administrator John Titkanich said the deals show what strong teamwork can accomplish.
“It is hard to put into words the joy it brings to work with the caliber of staff we have in this county. This is a great accomplishment, and residents will enjoy the benefits for years to come,” he said.