Marler Park on Okaloosa Island is set for a $1.3M facelift

SHALIMAR — The Marler Park playground on Okaloosa Island is set for a facelift.

On Tuesday, the Okaloosa County Commission approved more than $1.3 million in county funds to improve the park with new equipment and signage.

Here is what we know:

Why is it needed?

During her remarks to the board, Charlotte Dunworth from Okaloosa County's Tourist Development Team noted that Marler Park has seen better days. The park's surface has deteriorated and the equipment has passed its lifespan.

With its location near the Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, Marler Park is well suited to serve residents and tourists.

"The goal for this park is to make it a one-of-a-kind destination in south Okaloosa County that invites children of all ages to play in a safe environment.," Dunworth said.

What's coming?

With the playground overhaul, parkgoers can expect to see new playground structures, safety surfacing, sail shades, new benches, a coastal coating and signage, including appliques, panels and graphics.

According to county documents, approximately $1.237 million from the Capital Projects Fund will be used for all park upgrades, with $73,769 in tourist development funds paying for the new signage.

After Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel asked about implementing splash pads in the park, Dunworth noted that those amenities would be included in the park's five-year plan.

When will the park upgrade be finished?

According to county documents, staff believes construction will last four months once a purchase order is received. The park is set to close for demolition in November, with the installation of new equipment scheduled for January and an overall completion date of March 1.

This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: Marler Park on Okaloosa Island is set for a $1.3M facelift