During the recent Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting, community members raised concerns regarding the management of shared waterways and the use of federal funds for local infrastructure projects. A key issue discussed was the construction of a new boat ramp on the Duval County side of the waterways, which replaced a previous ramp on the Nassau County side that had been closed.

Residents expressed confusion over whether the local government had applied for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding related to the storm that prompted the closure of the bridge and the ramp. They sought clarity on whether these funds were received and how they were allocated, particularly questioning if any of the money was used for the new boat ramp instead of addressing the needs of both communities.

Additionally, community members highlighted the lack of fishing piers, suggesting that if the funds had been managed effectively, both a boat ramp and fishing piers could have been constructed to benefit all users of the waterways. The residents emphasized the importance of collaboration between the two counties, given their shared waterways, and expressed a desire for transparency regarding the funding and decision-making processes.

The meeting underscored the need for better communication and cooperation between local governments to ensure that infrastructure developments serve the interests of all community members. As discussions continue, residents hope for answers regarding the FEMA funding and future improvements to their shared waterways.