Inverness seeks $2 million state match for Whispering Pines Park campground and support for park operations

The City of Inverness asked the Citrus County legislative delegation for state support to build a campground at Whispering Pines Park and for continued backing of FDOT projects that intersect city plans.

City officials described Whispering Pines Park as a 300-acre regional facility with ball fields, a splash pad, a junior Olympic pool, hiking and mountain-bike trails and courts for tennis and pickleball. The city proposes a simple RV-style campground to create earned revenue for park operations and reduce long-term reliance on local tax funding. The total project was described as $3,000,000, with the city contributing $1,000,000 and a $2,000,000 state request.

City and county officials also discussed coordination with the Florida Department of Transportation on a separate Railroad Street connection and Highway 41 widening. The city said it had successfully negotiated FDOT design changes to incorporate an existing right-of-way and that the campground would link to the Withlacoochee State Trail and could attract visitors for ball tournaments and trail users.

Why it matters: City officials said the campground would provide a steady revenue stream to maintain park facilities, expand regional visitation and support local businesses. The delegation was told the city and county have approved matches and resolutions supporting the ask.

Budget and approvals: City officials said the council approved the match and included a resolution in meeting backup materials; the project request to the delegation was $2,000,000 from the state toward a $3,000,000 total project.