SEBASTIAN — The long debated and anticipated improvements to the gravel and dirt parking lot north of Riverview Park in Sebastian could become reality before the end of the year.
The Sebastian City Council approved a design plan for the Cavcorp lot that earmarks spaces for 74 vehicles, including 37 boat trailers and five handicap-accessible spaces at an estimated cost of $177,000.
The estimate comes in under the Council’s $200,000 budget, which leaves room for lighting to be incorporated in the first phase of construction.
With the Council’s blessing of the parking plan, City Manager Joe Griffin said after the meeting that construction could begin immediately following the Fourth of July celebration. However, if it looks like construction cannot be complete before the November Clambake Festival, Griffin said they would hold off until after the annual event.
“We’re going to have to see,” he said.
Construction should last approximately 60 days. But, given the uncertainty of weather, construction could take longer.
The clock tower and the large oak tree will be spared, according to the plan, but a couple other trees will be removed to make room for more parking spots.
The plan shows a couple rows of straight parking meant for vehicles without trailers. That parking is limited to the west side of the lot. There are three rows of angled parking meant for vehicles towing trailers.
During special events, the angled parking can accommodate two regular vehicles, increasing the lot’s capacity.
