NICEVILLE, Fla. — Niceville leaders and community partners broke ground Friday on the Old Town Landing dock and pier on Bayshore Drive, officially launching construction on the project’s waterfront access phase.
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Mayor Daniel Henkel said the project marks “the beginning of a new chapter for Niceville with a focus on building the space centered around community.”
“And this is a great community — I think everybody knows it,” Mr Henkel said. “The name truly is outstanding and does reflect who we are.”
The dock and pier represent phase one of a four-phase redevelopment plan that will gradually transform the Old Town Landing area into a more active public waterfront space, Henkel said.
Phase one includes the construction of the dock and pier, which are expected to begin shortly. The improvements are designed to expand public access to Boggy Bayou and provide boating and fishing opportunities, as well as space for private gatherings such as weddings.
Mayor Henkel said the area will also include a stage for community events, shaded seating, park benches, and open space designed to bring residents and visitors together.
“It will be a space where families can spend time together, friends can meet up, and neighbors can connect,” he said.
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Mr Henkel emphasized that the dock and pier are only the first step.
“And this is only a first step,” he said. “Each phase will continue to build on this vision for a welcoming waterfront gathering space.”
Funding for the project comes from several sources. Henkel said the Community Redevelopment Agency is reinvesting tax increment financing dollars generated within the district back into projects like this one.
The project also includes Okaloosa County tourist development funds, generated by the bed tax paid by visitors, along with support from the Florida Boating Improvement Fund, a state grant program that improves public access to waterways.
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“As our city manager will often say, ‘In Niceville, we like doing all of these projects on someone else’s money, not our citizens,’” Mr Henkel said.
Henkel thanked the CRA, city council members, county partners, staff, and community stakeholders for helping move the dock and pier project forward.
City and county representatives used ceremonial shovels and hard hats during the event, tossing dirt to officially mark the start of construction.
The Old Town Landing site is located on Bayshore Drive between Armstrong and Edge avenues.
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