North Florida Land Trust will be the real estate consultant for the city’s McCoys Creek Restoration Project, part of the Emerald Trail.
The nonprofit has a contract to provide technical and real estate work needed for the acquisition of parcels associated with the proposed improvements within the plan.
“Our experience is particularly relevant to the kind of properties being purchased specifically for parks and habitat restoration purposes, a cause that is precisely the focus of our organization,” said NFLT President Jim McCarthy in a news release.
Groundwork Jacksonville, leader of the Emerald Trail effort, will identify the landowners. The land trust will handle negotiations and due diligence in coordination with the city Public Works Department, Real Estate Division and Office of General Counsel.
McCoys Creek extends from the St. Johns River near the former Times-Union building at 1 Riverside Ave. through historic urban neighborhoods and floods during normal rainfall. As part of the restoration project, the city will make improvements to prevent flooding, restore fish and wildlife habitat and establish a resilient ecosystem.
City Council approved the Emerald Trail master plan in March. It’s a 30-mile network of trails and amenities through urban core neighborhoods scheduled to be completed in 10 years at a cost of $31 million.