Published: October 27, 2009 12:02 pm      

City moves forward with Crapps estate project

The city of Live Oak has taken the next step in securing the Crapps estate on Helvenston Street for the development of a regional park. Live Oak was awarded an 80 percent matching grant earlier this month by the Florida Communities Trust. The city must secure funding for the remainder.

The estate includes an historical home that sits on about 75 acres. Plans are to establish the mansion as a cultural facility for weddings, receptions and other gatherings. Plans also include nature trails and a park with numerous sporting events.

City Manager Bob Farley said he's excited about the venture.

"It's part of the community," Farley said Monday night. "I can see this being a bit of a cultural step in moving forward down the road."

Councilman John Hale said he's worried about the cost of maintenance.

"My only real concern is the long term plans as far as keeping it going," Hale said.

Farley said prison work crews and parks and recreation staff would be among a list of candidates for maintaining the estate.

Parks and Recreation Director Greg Scott said he and his staff are willing to do their part and called the project a "vision for the future."

"I have confidence in our staff that we can do it," said Scott. "Will it be a challenge, sure, but we never back down from a challenge."

The city is also looking to purchase the old CSX railway and private field west of the estate.