ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – St. Johns County has purchased 32.9 acres from the Sykes Family Limited Partnership for a future regional park intended to serve residents in the southern part of the county.
The acquisition, finalized in April 2026, was approved by the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners at its Dec. 2, 2025, meeting. The property is on Moccasin Creek Lane near State Road 207, adjacent to the St. Johns County Fairgrounds at 5840 State Road 207 in Elkton. The land was appraised at $824,100; closing costs were $10,630.20.
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County officials said the purchase is part of a long-range planning effort begun in 2023 by the County Administration’s Infrastructure Delivery Team to provide infrastructure and recreational amenities to support population growth over the next five to 10 years. The move supplements ongoing projects including Silverleaf Sportsplex, Shearwater Community Park and Library, Greenbriar Park and Library, Northeast Regional Park and the renovation of Davis Park.
“This is exactly the kind of proactive investment our community deserves,” Joy Andrews, county administrator, said. She noted the Infrastructure Delivery Team’s “disciplined, team-based approach” to planning and financial stewardship.
“As our county continues to grow, families need access to quality parks and places to play,” Clay Murphy, commission chair, said. “This investment helps us stay ahead of that need, especially in our southern communities.”
The purchase was funded by the fiscal 2026 budget ($800,000) and a transfer from Parks Zone D impact-fee reserves ($36,100).
“The county extends its sincere appreciation to the Sykes Family for their partnership and willingness to work with us on this property acquisition,” Corey Bowens, land management director, said. He added the collaboration will help ensure the property is preserved and developed for public use.
The Infrastructure Delivery Team is evaluating financial options to determine the park’s design and construction timeline.