The “ice cream social” scheduled for May 26, 2018, to mark the reopening of Poe Springs Park is postponed for one week. The event will be held on Saturday, June 2, beginning at 11 a.m.
According to the Nation Weather Service website, “There is a high chance of a subtropical or tropical depression forming in the southeastern Gulf of Mexico this weekend.” Heavy rains are expected across Florida beginning this weekend and extending through early next week.
“We want people to be able to fully enjoy the park and do so in a safe manner,” said Parks and Conservation Lands Director Charlie Houder. “By waiting a week we hope to have a better turn out and a chance to experience the park at its best.”
County staff will be on hand to provide information on County-owned parks and preserves available to the public. Information on springs protection, hurricane preparedness, and other relevant topics will also be available. Free ice cream sandwiches and other frozen treats will be available while supplies last, beginning at 11 a.m.
After completion of significant repairs to damages from Hurricane Irma, Poe Springs Park reopened on May 18. Regular park hours for the season are Thursday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The park will also be open on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
Poe Springs was hit hard by Hurricane Irma and the subsequent flooding on the Santa Fe River. An uprooted ashtree badly damaged a portion of the boardwalk to the spring. The floodwaters deposited a large volume of sand in the spring covering the steps that provide entry for bathers. The canoe launch, dock, and restrooms were also damaged.
The boardwalk, steps, canoe launch, and restrooms have been cleaned and repaired. Entry to the spring has been improved by the addition of more handrails and non-slip nosing on the steps. Further repairs and improvements are planned for the fall once the summer swimming season is over.
For more information, contact Alachua County Parks and Conservation Lands Director Charlie Houder at 352-264-6804 or chouder@alachuacounty.us.
