On Wednesday, October 23^rd at 10:00am, District 1 Commissioner and Vice Chairman Bill Chapman, in conjunction with the Walton County Board of County Commissioners, will be hosting a Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Ceremony for the new Grady Brown Park.
 
The event will take place at Grady Brown Park located at the north end of the Choctawhatchee Clyde B. Wells Bridge on US Highway 331 at 20940 US Highway 331 South, Freeport, FL.
 
The Grady Brown Park offers a number of amenities to the public that improve the recreational opportunities in the area. The park features:

• Sandy Beach along the Choctawhatchee Bay
• 2 Boat Ramps
• 3 Finger Piers
• Handicapped Accessible Kayak Launch
• Picnic Tables
• Grills
• Boat Washdown Station
• Boat Trailer Parking Area
• Vehicle Parking
• Sidewalks
• Restrooms 

On July 25, 2017, the BCC approved the $3,742,000 purchase of the property with the excess funds remaining from the half-cent sales tax that was imposed to finance construction of the US Hwy 331 bridge.   In October of 2017, Walton County Crews begin demolition of previous structures and site cleanup.
 
On November 28, 2017, the BCC approved the preliminary park concept plan and directed staff to hold two public workshops for community input. Following those workshops, the BCC approved the final park plan and staff began the process of design and permitting.
 
Following the approval of the design and permitting, on October 9, 2018 the BCC acted to officially name the park, Grady Brown Park.  During the July 10^th, 2018 BCC meeting, Ms. Hannah Brown had requested the park be named for Mr. Grady Brown, her grandfather, who fished the area every day, was a role model to many and was a lifelong resident of Walton County.
 
In January of 2019, R J Gorman Marine Construction, LLC was issued a notice to proceed to begin the construction associated with the seawall renovation, boat ramp, piers and sidewalks.  In March of 2019, Gum Creek Farms, Inc was issued a notice to proceed to begin construction of the bathroom facility.
 
Walton County Public Works crews completed the park by installing the sidewalks, parking areas and sod.
 
We look forward to having the public and media join us in opening the new Grady Brown Park for use by Walton County residents and visitors.