Clearwater's Moccasin Lake Park Closed For Renovations

CLEARWATER, FL – If this weekend’s picture-perfect weather forecast has you thinking of making a trip to the Moccasin Lake Environmental Education Center in Clearwater, you might want to reconsider that plan.

The 51-acre park featuring trails and boardwalks surrounded by nature and wildlife is now closed for much-needed improvements and upgrades.

The work will continue now through August.

The total cost of the project is $935,000. A matching grant $200,000 from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Land and Water Conservation Fund is funding $200,000.

Renovations will include a complete remodel of the interior spaces of the interpretive center including air-conditioning for the entire building, upgraded space for the birds of prey volunteers and public restrooms.

New static displays and live animals will be on display once completed.

Other work will include installation of a new playground, new restrooms moved from a composting system to modern plumbing, new parking lot, remodeling the existing classroom to a state-of-the-art classroom, landscaping and trail improvements, a new pier and trail bridge.

"Moccasin Lake Nature Park is a sparkling jewel within the city of Clearwater's park system. These critical improvements will completely enhance the visitor experience, providing a place of respite, education and green space for all ages of the community," said Natalie Lamb, Clearwater Parks and Recreation specialist. "The renovations, in a nontraditional sense, provide a one-of-a-kind meeting space for activities like weddings, corporate team building and community events. We cannot wait to reintroduce Moccasin Lake Nature Park to the community."

The park is located in the middle of Clearwater at 2602 and 2750 Park Trail Lane. Its mature oaks, ponds and creeks attract an array of wildlife including gopher turtles, raccoons and many species of birds. Moccasin Lake is also home to several injured birds of prey. The park offers classes, programs, camps and meeting/reception rentals with both indoor and outdoor meeting space.

Image via city of Clearwater

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