The riverfront area in San Marco is a place where people fish, eat lunch, even lay out in the sun. The need for a new bulkhead was great because of erosion.
City Council Member Lori Boyer tells our News4Jax partner the work on the bulkhead will be completed in May. Boyer said at that point there will be a functional bulkhead that will prevent the ongoing erosion issues seen in recent years.
Work began last year but the city was short of the required funds to complete the bulkhead.
During the budget process in September, the city added funds to the project.
People who walk the San Marco area are happy the end is in sight.
"That view used to be beautiful. I was actually looking at old pictures the other day and I was like gosh I wish they would fix it already," said Zeina Hotzic.
"I used to come here all the time because I walk all the way around and read and enjoy, but now there's been a gate here since Matthew. So I just walk around and go back to Starbucks because there is nothing else to do," said Juliana Tobi.
"If you come out here about five or six, it's the best sunset- one of the best in Jacksonville. I would be happy to see it open again the dogs could stroll through and have a seat on the bench. It is an oasis in Jacksonville," said Stuart Gamsey.
Our News4Jax partner reports one negative that has occurred during the project is the removal of some of the palm trees. The trees were removed last fall. The contractor told the city removing the trees gave them more room.
The city will now replace the trees at the city’s expense, according to News4Jax.