SJC Purchases 33 Acres Near Fairgrounds for Future Park Project

• 15 April 2026
• Category: SJC News Parks and Recreation
• Tags: 2026

The property off Moccasin Creek Lane was sold by the Sykes family

St. Johns County has purchased 32.9 acres of land from the Sykes Family Limited Partnership for the future development of a regional park site that will serve residents in the southern portion of the County.

The acquisition is the result of a long-term planning effort initiated by the County Administrator in 2023 to proactively plan for and deliver the infrastructure needed to support the County’s continued growth and quality of life over the next decade. This effort builds upon the County’s ongoing planning and construction of additional regional park facilities, including Silverleaf Sportsplex, Shearwater Community Park and Library, Greenbriar Park and Library, Northeast Regional Park, and the renovation of Davis Park. Together, these investments in Parks and Recreation represent a coordinated master plan to deliver major recreational infrastructure to support a growing community and enhanced quality of life for residents.

This purchase reflects a proactive, forward-looking approach to securing key properties as part of a 5- to 10-year long-range plan to expand park capacity, particularly in the southern region, where population growth continues to increase demand for recreational amenities.

The acquisition was approved by the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners at its regular meeting on Dec. 2, 2025, and finalized in April 2026. The property is located on Moccasin Creek Lane, near State Road 207 in the southern portion of the County, adjacent to the St. Johns County Fairgrounds (5840 SR 207, Elkton). The appraised value of the land is $824,100, with additional closing costs of $10,630.20.

“This is exactly the kind of proactive investment our community deserves,” said County Administrator Joy Andrews. “Since forming our Infrastructure Delivery Team in 2023, we’ve taken a disciplined, team-based approach focused on proactive planning and responsible financial stewardship to meet our residents’ quality-of-life needs without delay or unnecessary financial burden.”

“This is an important step for the future of our community,” said Commission Chair Clay Murphy. “As our County continues to grow, families need access to quality parks and places to play. This investment helps us stay ahead of that need, especially in our southern communities, and reflects our commitment to expanding recreational opportunities and improving quality of life for our residents.”

The purchase was funded by the FY26 budget ($800,000) and a transfer from Parks Zone D Impact Fees 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. Their collaboration ensures this property will be preserved and developed for the benefit of the public,” said Corey Bowens, Land Management Director.

The County Administration’s Infrastructure Delivery Team is currently evaluating financial options to determine the project’s design and construction timeline.