UPDATE -- UPDATE -- On 11/3/2025, Boca Parks Commissioners voted 3-2 in opposition of development of the Surf Park.  Thank you to everyone who signed the petition and spoke directly at the meetings to voice concerns about this matter.  Your voice directly impacted the future of this land.  Thank you...

 

 

 

North Park, which lies at the Northeast corner of Boca Raton, Florida, serves as one of the last remaining vital green spaces in our area for both the local community, as well as the diverse wildlife that calls it home.  Unfortunately, North Park is now under threat from development plans,  specifically a priority proposal for a large scale Surf/Water Park that aims to replace this natural haven with concrete commercial infrastructure.  This would be a logistical and ecological disaster..

The proposed project will irrevocably alter the North Park's character, which is peppered with mature foliage.  The proposed water park would diminish the quality of life for residents in the bordering neighborhoods, but more importantly, it would immediately eradicate the delicate ecosystems within.  Trees that have stood for decades are at risk of being cut down, displacing birds, squirrels, gopher tortoises and other local fauna that populate the land.  I strongly urge you to go walk in North Park and look around.  During the day appreciate it's flora.  At night, look up and notice the lack of light pollution, see the Milky Way and stars..  Such a development not only threatens natural balance but also strips the community of a space cherished for recreation and relaxation.

Economic growth and urban development are important, but they should not come at the cost of our natural heritage.  Protecting green spaces is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, combating climate change, and ensuring the well-being of future generations. In 2021, a study published by the American Planning Association revealed that urban green spaces significantly enhance community health, reduce stress, and increase happiness among residents.  On the contrary, "wave pools" in other regions have brought dissonance from ecology specialists and area residents, read below article.

 

https://www.surfrider.eu/learn/news/wave-pools-environmental-concerns-outweigh-their-value/

 

Instead of completely erasing this beautiful natural land and paving over it with a 5000 person per day water park,  we must consider implementing another more eco-friendly infrastructure project.  We can achieve economic development without compromising the ecological integrity of North Park.

Join us in urging the Boca Raton City Council to reconsider the current plans and explore options that prioritize the conservation of North Park. Let's work together to safeguard this important green space for our families, our community, and our wildlife. Please sign this petition to voice your support for saving North Park from destruction and ensure it remains a sanctuary for generations to come. Your signature speaks volumes and can drive the change we need!

 

Join us in urging the greater Boca Raton Beach & Park District to rethink their decision along with the City Council to not let this happen.  Please send emails to both organizations stressing your concerns (emails below):

BOCA RATON CITY COUNCIL:

Mayor Scott Singer: ssinger@bocaraton-fl.gov

Councilman Yvette Drucker: ydrucker@bocaraton-fl.gov

Councilman Andy Thomson: athomson@bocaraton-fl.gov

Councilman Fran Nachlas: fnachlas@bocaraton-fl.gov

Councilman Marc Wigder: mwigder@bocaraton-fl.gov

 

GREATER BOCA RATON BEACH & PARK DISTRICT COMMISSIONERS

Commissioner Ehrnst, cehrnst@mybocaparks.org

Commissioner Engel, sengel@mybocaparks.org

Commissioner Rollins, rrollins@mybocaparks.org

Commissioner Vogelgesang, svogelgesang@mybocaparks.org

Commissioner Wright, ewright@mybocaparks.org

Executive Director, Briann Harms, Bharms@mybocaparks.org