In January 2006, Sarasota County purchased approximately 11 acres to add to the existing 4-acre Blackburn Point Park located west of the historic swing bridge along Blackburn Point Road in Osprey. The County applied for and was awarded a Florida Communities Trust (FCT) grant in the amount of $5 million towards the purchase of this land.

Parks and Recreation began the development of a conceptual master plan for all three areas of Blackburn Point Park in September 2007, and worked closely with Public Works, Natural Resources, Stormwater Management, and Land Development Services during the conceptual planning process. Several public meetings were held to seek community input. The Board of County Commissioners reviewed the concept plan provided suggestions, and approved the plan June 13, 2008.

Blackburn Point Park Concept Plan

The Blackburn Point Park project is included as one of the “Fast-Track Penny Surtax Projects” and is currently being managed by Public Works in coordination with Parks and Recreation staff. Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. was hired in December 2008 to conduct the design, engineering and permitting of Blackburn Point Park. Park amenities and features will include: a 2-lane boat ramp, restrooms, parking, nature trails, sidewalks, fishing piers, pavilions, playground, picnic areas, and environmental mitigation/enhancements. Design work will be completed in early 2012 and construction of the park amenities is expected to begin in Summer/Fall 2012.

For additional information regarding the status of design and construction for the park improvements, contact Curtis Smith (Project Manager) at 941-861-5000.