By: Carol Erickson
On April 29th, Sarasota County and its dedicated community celebrated the culmination of a goal set years ago…to improve and expand the historic Blackburn Point Park in Osprey.
For those who are new to the area or not familiar, Blackburn Point Park is an existing multi-acre water access and family- friendly park. It is located just east of another historic treasure, the Swing Bridge ( which is listed on the U.S National Register of Historic places). Formerly known as Fishermen’s Island, Blackburn Point Park has served its community for many years. With the on-going expansion and much anticipated improvements, it will be an even more valuable piece of Sarasota County’s past that will be enjoyed by many generations to come.
Many of the new features at the park will include additional boat ramps & docks, expanded parking, a fishing pier, more picnic areas and great hiking trails. Also with its improved boat storage and staging area, it will attract visiting and practicing rowing teams from all over the country who will use this facility for training in the 2017 World Rowing Championship to be held at Sarasota’s Nathan Benderson Park.
The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony gave all who were involved in the massive effort, a wonderful opportunity to thank the community, the suppliers and all others who helped reach this milestone in history. Great Job !!
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Media invited to ribbon-cutting for new Blackburn Point Park additions
SARASOTA COUNTY – Members of the media are invited to the ribbon-cutting for the new Blackburn Point Park additions on April 29, to celebrate the improvement and expansion of the park’s amenities.
Blackburn Point Park has a long and rich history of serving the community, from the Native Americans who used its shore to secure food and resources, to the people who flock to the park each year to enjoy all the wonderful modern recreational opportunities.
All of the new additions, including parking for 56 boat trailers, new restroom pavilion, rowing dock, rowing ramp and motorized boat ramp, among others, will enhance a facility used by anglers, boaters and outdoor enthusiasts.
Blackburn Point Park also plays a critical part in Sarasota County’s county-wide rowing program, allowing for visiting rowing teams from around the globe to train on-site and experience Sarasota County’s beautiful waterways. Teams are expected to utilize the facility while practicing for the 2017 World Rowing Championships, which will be held at Nathan Benderson Park.
EVENT INFO:
WHAT: Blackburn Point Park
WHEN: Wednesday, April 29, 4 p.m.
WHERE: 800 Blackburn Point Road, Osprey, FL 34229
WHY: The ribbon-cutting to celebrate all of the new additions to Blackburn Point Park.
