Submitted by
Pete Scalco
Park Manager
Fort Clinch State Park is considered by many locals as “their” little place of enchantment. While generations of folks from Southeast Georgia and Northeast Florida have long gathered at Fort Clinch for family reunions, living history, fishing on the half mile long pier, or just enjoying the beautiful and sensitive natural and cultural resources found there; Fort Clinch State Park provides another valuable resource as well.
Fort Clinch has a major economic impact on Fernandina Beach and the surrounding area. Park attendance in 2011 (the latest figures available) reached 229,083. Visitor expenditures in the local area totaled $979,338 and had a total direct economic impact of $10,760,684 increasing tax revenue by $ 685,884 and spinning off over 215 jobs. The park directly employs 13 full time employees and 6-8 seasonal employees.
Fort Clinch State Park also provides a unique educational resource. Last year over 2000 school children enhanced their understanding of our areas historic significance by attending field trips to one of the best preserved 19th century coastal fortifications in the nation, while enjoying a trip back in time connecting to their cultural heritage. Fort Clinch’s 68 campsites for both tent and RV adventures on the Amelia River and Atlantic beach have an 88% year round occupancy rate proving to be one of the most popular overnight destinations of Florida’s State Parks.
Florida’s award winning State Parks act as an important economic resource while providing a quality outdoor recreational experience for over 20 million visitors a year. In 2011 Florida’s 160 state parks added $967,373,375 in direct economic impact and increased state sales tax revenue on visitor expenditures by $61,204,800 while generating 19,347 jobs.
Come out and enjoy Fort Clinch State Park, the friendly professional staff look forward to welcoming you to the Real Florida.
Editor’s Note:
We are posting this article on Pete Scalco’s last day as park manager of Fort Clinch. Pete loves our fort property and during his tenure made many changes that enhanced the visitors’ experience, and allowed better access to a previously overlooked marsh and lighthouse view. His next assignment is park manager of Wakulla Springs beginning July 1. Thank you Pete for your many contributions to our community. We wish you well.
References
FY 2010/2011 Florida State Park systems Economic Impact Assessment, Office of Park Planning, Division of Recreation and Parks, www.dep.statte.fl.us
June 29, 2012 10:20 a.m.