ORANGE PARK – The Town Council made significant strides in enhancing Rob Bradley Park at Nelson Point during Tuesday night’s meeting.

The first decision approved a two-unit modular restroom at the park. While the approval for the purchase will come later, the decision will provide direction for the procurement process. 

The estimated cost for a single-unit restroom would be $75,000, while Town Manager Sarah Campbell said a double-unit option could range around $82,000-$85,000. She said the town will be reimbursed up to $25,000 for the facility. 

A plan to buy an adaptive kayak launch from BoardSafe Docks was tabled.

The council, however, gave the green light for state-of-the-art water access to Doctors Lake and St. Johns River at the town’s only public waterfront park. The kayak launch will be accessible to those who have mobility challenges. 

The walkway from the parking lot to the kayak launch and restrooms was supposed to include asphalt, but the council had other thoughts. Concerns from members about the surface, and they wanted to consider options like crushed lime rock. However, asphalt still is the top option,

The walkway around the park's perimeter will have a temporary surface such as mulch, the council agreed unanimously, and the lease agreement with the Orange Park Athletic Association, which will run until Sept. 30, 2024, was approved.