Port Charlotte Beach Park’s $30.5M Rebuild Kicks Off Next Month After Hurricane Damage

Oct. 16 marks the start of a massive makeover at Port Charlotte Beach Park. The $30.5 million project will fix what three storms left in ruins. 

The new main building will stretch across 20,751 square feet. Inside, you'll find spots for meetings, a kitchen for events, workspaces, and a deck with water views. Next door is the 5,765-square-foot pool area, perfect for swimming laps, water workouts, and special occasions.

Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton wrecked 57 different areas of the park, with costs hitting $1.2 million. Most spots closed their gates after Helene swept through last September, with Milton striking just two weeks after.

While some areas, like the courts, play area, and boat launch, welcome visitors again, other areas still need work. Workers will tear down the old pool and recreation building soon. 

Money needs kept growing. The main building's price tag shot up from $10 million to $25 million. The pool area now costs $5.5 million instead of $4.5 million. Sales tax money and FEMA funds will foot the bill.

People living in Buena Vista wouldn't let the park slip away. This small spot — home to 480 families near Charlotte Harbor — pushed to save their beloved space.

Steve Padgett from PBK Architects drew up smart plans. The new building will sit higher up, built stronger to stand up against future storms.

Since 1972, the park has stood on Harbor Boulevard. Its last touch-up came in 2012, paid for by both local taxes and state recreation money.

After designers finish their work this summer, building crews take over in 2026. If all goes as planned, gates will open again in early 2027.