The Blue Heron Bridge dive site at Phil Foster Park is an internationally renowned, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving destination. As one of Florida's most accessible and biodiverse shore dives, it supports a fragile marine ecosystem filled with tropical fish, sea turtles, manatees, sharks, abundant macro-life, and occasional rare pelagic species. Locals have been diving the bridge for nearly 60 years!

We, the undersigned residents, divers, and marine advocates strongly oppose the proposed high-density development, primarily the construction of obstructive boat docks, that would drastically intrude into the dive space and negatively impact the aquatic habitat.

Extended boat docks adjacent to the east bridge would heavily impact the swimming and diving corridor. Boat docks would reduce or obstruct access to this unique public resource and create safety concerns. Increased boat traffic would degrade water quality, threatening local marine life and disrupting recreational activities. This crucial area is the highlight of the east dive site, hosting a vibrant array of marine life in the seaweed, seagrass, shells beds, and rubble around and under the bridge. Degrading this world-famous, bucket list destination will severely impact the local dive shops, sustainable tourism, and the local economy. 

Large private or commercial docking structures are simply not appropriate in this location.

We urge the Riviera Beach City Council, the Palm Beach County Commission, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to reject a proposal that includes new boat docks that intrude, obstruct, or prevent swimming or diving activities near the east side of the Blue Heron Bridge. We request that the site be protected as an environmental corridor and recreational sanctuary for future generations to enjoy.

Please support residents, divers, and marine advocates in the Blue Heron Bridge community who strongly oppose the proposed intrusive boat docks.