FELLSMERE — The city soon will be a destination for surfers, as the Point Surf Park was approved by the City Council Sept. 4. Councilmember Shayla Macias dissented in the 4-1 vote.
But, locals, city officials and the developer alike see it as more than just a destination, but a beacon of hope for the city’s children who, they say, have long expressed a lack of available activities.
“This is a miracle for the city,” Community Development Director Bob Loring said during the City Council meeting. “It’s something positive that local kids can look forward to, and could potentially change lives.”
The plan
TPSP Holdings LLC, the developer, is planning to turn the 2.3 acres of vacant property at Mesa Park on County Road 512 into a professional training facility, which could boost the local economy.
The project is expected to cost $34 million, with no contribution from the city. It is to feature a main building incorporating the long-standing dual towers and a 4.3-million-gallon wave pool. Traffic impact, which has been a concern for residents, will be minimal as the parking lot has 92 spaces, according to the developer, and reservations for the park will be required.
Point Surf Park also expects to hire local residents for positions such as lifeguards, photographers, instructors and support staff. The park also is to host holiday events; food-bank fundraisers; worship-and-surf Sunday; life-saving training; competitions; and classes for kids, while also promoting mental health.
City resident Donna Miller said the children she works with are excited and excited to surf.
“The children are buzzing with excitement,” Miller said. “This is something that will bring wholesomeness to our community.”
Some, however remain unconvinced.
Macias expressed concern that the project had not been vetted enough, and resident Cesar Lopez fears the developer will overreach.
Loring and surf park owner Luiz De Araujo both say the park has been thoroughly planned and reviewed.
“We have been transparent and an open book since the start,” said Araujo. “We are trying to give back to the community through surfing.”
Economic opportunity
Loring expects the park to be an economic-engine for Fellsmere, as the influx of surfers and their families needing places to eat, stay and refuel would inject money into local businesses.
Moreover, the park is being required to purchase water from the city, said Loring. It will cost $20,000 to fill it up initially.”
“This is one of those projects that doesn’t come around every day,” Loring said. “It represents an economic opportunity that this community has not had in decades.”
Nick Slater is TCPalm’s Indian River County Watchdog reporter. You can reach him at Nick.Slater@tcpalm.com and 224-830-2875
This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Fellsmere OKs surf park; project expected to bring economic benefits to the city
Reporting by Nick Slater, Treasure Coast Newspapers / Treasure Coast Newspapers
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