WATERFRONT
fronts. Until then, however, the state won’t issue permits for
islands as waterfront protection from hurricanes.
“I see this as kind of a living lab, too,” Kubitschek said.
“Teachers can bring their students here to teach them about
habitats. Colleges may also find these islands are great places
for students.”
All of this is good for the city economically, but when the
137 slips are in place the marina will once again be bringing
in $700,000 to $800,000 a year. In the past, money not needed
for marina expenses or a rainy day fund were used for waterfront
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projects.
“We’ve had positive cash flow for the last 17 years,” he
said. “The marina has always brought people into the downtown
area. Before the hurricanes, I had people tell me that the
marina supplied as much as 40 percent of their business. So
we will be able to start helping to revitalize the downtown
again. We will be able to have fishing tournaments and help
charities raise money with them again too.”
Downtown’s various activities also draw boaters in. The
Downtown Farmers’ Market, the other big events and festivals,
the Sunrise Theatre, places to eat, drink and shop all are
within easy walking distance of the marina.
The channel into the marina is being dredged and will
remain closed until Feb. 7, he said.
“In the late spring and early summer the water is so clear
you can see everything. I think we are going to bring in ecotourists
and fishermen because the fishing around these island
will be incredible. We’ve already recorded all kinds of fish
around these islands. We can’t let people get on them because
they will be wildlife habitat, but I think everyone will want to
see what is on them from shore or from a boat.”
ED DRONDOSKI
Workers fill mesh frames with stone. The “mattresses” hold the base of the
islands in place.