JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Construction workers are pulling up dirt, planting bases and stabilizing the roots of palm trees. The Beach Boulevard project is part of the Florida Department of Transportation's Big and Bold Landscape Initiative. It's a $3.1 million investment to beautify the area by adding palm trees.
Some neighbors said palm trees are distinctive symbols of the beach community and reflect Floridians' way of life.
"I think it's a good thing because it makes things a little nicer and it has a certain aesthetic fit," said neighbor Kevin Dunn.
Dunn recognizes it's a hefty financial project, but he believes it will draw people to the area once completed.
"I think it is a good place to put the money because it's good for the people that live here and the tourist(s) that come to our area," said Dunn.
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Other neighbors, like Douglas Gall, aren't too keen on millions of dollars being invested in a project just to add beautification.
"Beach Boulevard looks fine; I don't mind them putting the trees in. They are pretty and nice, but they could put the money toward underdeveloped neighborhoods," said Gall.
FDOT officials said there are 149 Medjool Date Palms being planted, and each costs at least $2,200. They're also planting nearly 300 Sabal palms that cost around $300 per tree. Crews working on the Beach Blvd. project said they're going to plant 18 Wild Date Palms and 46 Washingtonia Palms.
The landscaping Beach Boulevard project stretches from St. Johns Bluff Road to San Pablo Road. FDOT said the $3.1 million includes all mobilization, maintenance of traffic, clearing and grubbing, plant materials, soil excavation, soil replacement, turf replacement, irrigation, mowing, litter pickup and a two-year establishment period.
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