Apalachee Regional Park Master Plan and Landfill Conversion

About the Program

Category: Parks and Recreation (Best in Category)

Year: 2020

In 2015, Leon County, Florida began the process of developing a comprehensive, multi-phase plan to guide the transition of the County’s former Solid Waste Management Facility into a prominent regional park. This effort involved the dual processes of closing the County’s former landfill (which the County achieved at more than 26% below initial cost estimates by using a variety of innovative, staff-led cost saving strategies) and developing a park master plan with significant community and stakeholder input. This project builds upon the County’s long-standing commitment to the environment, our local economy, quality of life for our citizens, and fiscal stewardship. Through extensive community engagement and cross departmental collaboration, the vision for this signature park is well-defined and positions the facility to become an economic engine by drawing outdoor enthusiasts of many various ages and interests. Aligning with this vision, the Apalachee Regional Park Master Plan identifies opportunities for heightened nature-based recreation while balancing the unique operational constraints of a historic landfill.