EUSTIS, Fla. — Plans to buy and redevelop a mobile home park in downtown Eustis are on hold because the city and the owner couldn’t work out a deal.
City leaders said they want the site as part of their downtown master plan and that they aren’t giving up hope that they will have a hand in making big changes downtown.
Resident Frank Wood enjoys walking around in Ferran Park, and was excited when he heard the city wanted to buy Sharps Mobile Home Park and redevelop it.
“I thought it was a good move. It would create a much better vista on that part of the lake,” Wood said.
The property is a key component in the city’s downtown redevelopment plan, along with the site of the old Waterman Hospital and a shopping plaza where a Winn Dixie used to be.
But the city and the owner of the mobile home park could not reach a deal.
The owners wanted $3.3 million, which was more than the city wanted to pay.
The asking price wasn’t the only issue.
“The site is not ready for redevelopment. There are some things that have to be done,” said Tom Carrino, the city’s Economic Development director.
Officials said some of the soil on the property is contaminated with oil.
Despite not getting the property, the city’s plan for downtown will continue.
So far, the city has invested about $7.5 million in Ferran Park on a new kayak launch site, restrooms, parking and playground equipment.
Leaders also added streetscapes and sidewalks downtown, signage, and did some storm water projects and building improvements.
City leaders said they are willing to offer incentives if someone else buys the property, and is willing to redevelop the area.
WFTV
