Local Philanthropist Named Accessibility Champion by Florida State Parks Foundation: What It Means for St. Johns County

Did you know Florida has 175 state parks and 100 miles of pristine coastline? With 28 million visitors annually, Florida's booming recreation business brings in an economic impact of $3.6 billion, according to the Florida State Parks Foundation.

This is important data because, as a local foundation, we care deeply about our state parks and understand the value they bring to our area. That’s why we’re celebrating alongside our state parks partners, as they just received a $500,000 grant from a familiar Northeast Florida philanthropist, the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Fund, to enhance accessibility in state parks, with a special focus on Northeast Florida.

The Florida State Parks Foundation also designated Delores Barr Weaver as its first-ever "Florida State Parks Foundation Accessibility Champion," a title that reflects her ongoing commitment to improving access to natural wonders. Weaver’s generous $500,000 donation will be distributed over five years to support these accessibility efforts, adding to her long-standing support for the state’s parks.

So, what does this mean for St. Johns County? While specific details are still limited, accessibility playgrounds may be the focus area that is on the horizon. St. Johns County currently has three state parks: Anastasia State Park, Fort Mose Historic State Park, and Faver-Dykes State Park. There is also the Palatka to St. Augustine State Trail.

Previous contributions from the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds include $150,000 for the fort reconstruction at Fort Mose Historic State Park in St. Augustine and $90,000 toward the first fully accessible glass-bottom boat at Silver Springs State Park in Ocala.

Thanks to Weaver’s support, Florida state parks have already made great strides toward inclusivity with wheelchair-accessible beach matting, river tour boats, electric trams, and even fishing piers. The St. Johns County Parks Foundation is thrilled to see such positive developments for Florida’s state parks. We are proud to support initiatives that make outdoor spaces more accessible and inclusive for everyone.

Once again, congratulations to our state parks friends! Learn more here.