In a recent government meeting, officials from the city of Jacksonville highlighted significant environmental initiatives aimed at improving local waterways and parks. The discussions centered around the city's ongoing efforts to clean up trash from Scales Creek, which feeds into Northeast Creek and ultimately the New River. Over the past year, the city has conducted 27 clean-up operations, removing a staggering 1,610 bags of trash, predominantly consisting of 1,338 pieces of styrofoam—83% of the total waste collected.

The meeting also celebrated the city’s successful acquisition of substantial grants, including a $15 million award from NOAA designated for the restoration of three streams: Sandy Run Branch, Scales Creek, and Chaney Creek. Additionally, the city will upgrade Phillips Park and Northeast Creek Park, with plans to enhance the infrastructure to withstand future storms and improve water quality.

A further $2.27 million grant will fund the construction of a new equipment wash bay at the public services compound, utilizing recycled water heated to 400 degrees to ensure sanitation vehicles are kept clean and odor-free. This initiative is part of a broader stormwater management strategy, which includes developing a nutrient management plan for the New River to qualify for future federal grants.

City officials expressed gratitude for the funding, noting that these projects will have a lasting impact on the community and its environment. The grants were facilitated by the National League of Cities, which advocated for direct federal funding to municipalities. The city has been a member for over 30 years, with one official serving on its Board of Directors.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing environmental stewardship, emphasizing the importance of restoring wetlands and floodplains to mitigate flooding and enhance local ecosystems. The council plans to unveil detailed project maps in an upcoming workshop, further detailing the transformative changes ahead for Jacksonville’s parks and waterways.