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Paradise Island: Cruise Port Threatens Untouched Florida
28 Feb
Summary
- Two companies propose a new cruise terminal on untouched landscape.
- Development plans include dredging and impacting Paradise Island.
- Locals oppose the cruise port, advocating for preservation of the area.
Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve's "Paradise Island," known for its serene blue-green waters and abundant wildlife, faces a potential transformation. Two companies, SSA Marine and Slip Knott LLC, have proposed constructing a new cruise terminal to accommodate larger vessels.
These development plans aim to utilize the Knott-Cowen Tract as a central cruise port hub, with proposed conservation efforts for Rattlesnake Key. However, the project's footprint reportedly includes Paradise Island and Skeet Key, necessitating extensive dredging.
Local residents are actively opposing the cruise terminal, with many desiring the preservation of the entire area, including its islands and shallow bay flats. Signs such as "NO CRUISE PORT" have appeared, reflecting community sentiment against the proposed development.
