By Mayor Michael J. Napoleone
We are now well into the summer season, and there is no shortage of great things to do outdoors in our Great Hometown. I am excited to share an update on a project that, while still in its early stages, promises to add another fantastic outdoor space to our community: the expansion of the Wellington Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Everglades Habitat.
The 365-acre Wellington Environmental Preserve is already a beloved part of our community, recognized as a “Great Place in Florida” by the Florida Chapter of the American Planning Association in 2023. This prestigious award acknowledges exceptional places that embody a true sense of community, cultural and historical significance, forward-thinking vision, and community involvement.
The Preserve was designed and created to serve as a rainwater storage area, but is so much more. Interior uplands and native landscaping provide an exhibition of natural Florida from the paved pedestrian path and boardwalk to seven designated Learning Areas. There is a large decorative Trellis and six story Observation Tower located at two of these Learning Areas. The preserve also includes a 3.6 mile perimeter Equestrian Trail that is an extension of the approximately 65-mile Wellington bridle trail system.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the 45-acre expansion took place on May 15, 2024, marking a significant milestone in our efforts to preserve the Everglades ecosystem. This is a Resiliency Infrastructure Project funded in part by a $1.7 million Resilient Florida Program Grant matched equally by the Village. Wellington has also been awarded a USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Grant of $747,500 for planting 700 native trees in this Preserve Expansion. This funding will catalyze resilient landscaping, stormwater quality management, and invasive species removal, ultimately fostering a healthier, more sustainable and vibrant community for generations to come.
The project, currently in the first phases of construction, is expected to be completed by mid-to late 2025. This expansion will further enhance our remarkable preserve with significant improvements such as landscaping, planting, construction of additional hiking and equestrian trails, wildlife observation areas, picnic structures, and an educational kiosk. These additions will not only protect the natural characteristics of the site but also provide valuable recreational and educational opportunities for our residents.
Our preserves work in partnership with the South Florida Water Management District to comply with the 1994 Everglades Forever Act, ensuring that we filter phosphorus and other nutrients from stormwater before it discharges into the Everglades. This project will continue this vital work, contributing to the health of our ecosystem and the well-being of our community.
This project is a crucial step towards preserving the Everglades ecosystem. The expansion reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and will enhance our community’s natural spaces, providing recreational and educational opportunities while protecting our precious natural resources.
We are grateful to our Village staff, from our Finance Department to Engineering and Public Works, for their countless contributions and for making this project a reality. Their dedication ensures that this natural gem remains a pristine and welcoming space for all who visit.
As we embark on this expansion project, we remain committed to preserving and protecting this precious resource for future generations. Together, we are ensuring that the Wellington Environmental Preserve continues to be a beloved and vital part of our community.
To our Environmental Preserve visitors, from families and casual walkers to our equestrian riders, thank you for your continued support. I look forward to celebrating this important environmental preservation project and enhancement with you soon.
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Michael J. Napoleone was elected as Mayor of the Village of Wellington Council in April 2024. He first joined the Council in March 2016 for a four-year term, when he was the first non-sitting council member elected without opposition in the Village’s history. Michael is an attorney at Day Pitney LLP practicing business, probate and real estate litigation. He is a past president of the Palm Beach County Bar Association and currently represents Wellington as an elected member of the executive board of the Palm Beach County League of Cities and the executive board of the Palm Beach County Transportation Planning Agency.