The city of Live Oak has taken the next step in securing the Crapps estate on Helvenston Street for the development of a regional park. Live Oak was awarded an 80 percent matching grant earlier this month by the Florida Communities Trust. The city must secure funding for the remainder.
The estate includes an historical home that sits on about 75 acres. Plans are to establish the mansion as a cultural facility for weddings, receptions and other gatherings. Plans also include nature trails and a park with numerous sporting events.
City Manager Bob Farley said he's excited about the venture.
"It's part of the community," Farley said Monday night. "I can see this being a bit of a cultural step in moving forward down the road."
Councilman John Hale said he's worried about the cost of maintenance.
"My only real concern is the long term plans as far as keeping it going," Hale said.
Farley said prison work crews and parks and recreation staff would be among a list of candidates for maintaining the estate.
Parks and Recreation Director Greg Scott said he and his staff are willing to do their part and called the project a "vision for the future."
"I have confidence in our staff that we can do it," said Scott. "Will it be a challenge, sure, but we never back down from a challenge."
The city is also looking to purchase the old CSX railway and private field west of the estate.
Local News
October 27, 2009
City moves forward with Crapps estate project
- Local News
-
-
Free community fitness at parks
-
Motorcyclist walks away from collision with car
-
Outbreak of Cinara aphids in south county reported
-
Branford High's Karen Koon named district teacher of the year
-
Students raise funds for Evan’s Cause
-
Closing date approaching on quota liquor licensing
-
Road to Olustee at Suwannee Museum
-
Best Super Bowl ad? Vote for your favorite
Naked M&Ms, an out-of-shape dog on a mission and Clint Eastwood delivering a passionate speech about American adversity -- these are among the favorite commercials that aired during Sunday's Super Bowl.
-
Prisoner transport vehicle involved in wreck
A Jacksonville man was traveling down the wrong side of I-10 when he crashed into the van.
-
Man suffers serious injuries on CR 137 crash
Glen St. Mary man was also involved in hit and run crash in Columbia County prior to this one, FHP reported.
- More Local News Headlines
-
Man Killed in Courthouse Shootout
Video of Ga. Man Who Killed Girl Released
Air Force Airlines: Leaders Get Polished Service
Ga Girl Fights Off Kidnapper at Walmart
Nevada Highway Patrol, City Settle Beating Case
White House Attacks Romney on Birth Control
Homs Bombardment Continues, Global Outcry Grows
Mo. Teen Gets Life Sentence for Killing Girl, 9
Lower-hassle Screening to Be Tested at Airports
Raw Video: Dog Rescued From Icy Colo. Water
Helmet Camera Captures Calif. Fire Rescue
Worker Tells 911: Powell 'exploded the House'
Triple Win: Santorum Takes Minn., Mo., Colo.
Injured Marine Inspired by Homecoming
No Rape Charges Against Son of NYPD Commissioner
Egypt's Ruling Generals Play Risky Game With US
Former Komen Exec Defends Funding Cut
Skip the Coffee Cup and Inhale Your Caffeine Fix
Calif. Gay Marriage Ban Ruled Unconstitutional
Jury Selection for Ex-UVa Athlete Enters 2nd Day
