Florida’s 175 state parks require nearly $760 million in repairs, upgrades, and maintenance over the next decade, according to a new report mandated by the State Park Preservation Act.

The legislation, passed this year, prohibits development of golf courses, hotels or pickleball courts at state parks and reserves, requiring the land instead be used for conservation-based recreation like fishing, camping, hiking and swimming.

The report stems from public backlash last year over proposals to develop hotels and golf courses at nine state parks, including Honeymoon Island in Pinellas County. The State Park Preservation Act was passed to forbid such development after protesters pushed back against the plans.

The report identifies $75 million needed for water quality improvement projects and $20 million for Americans with Disabilities Act upgrades. An additional $1.4 billion in new construction and development projects were contemplated in park plans.

At Honeymoon Island, identified needs include administrative support facilities, beach access paths, a bathhouse, boardwalk and campsites. David Harvey, who rents bicycles at the park, said business has slowed following hurricane damage and expressed hope that lawmakers will ensure parks receive necessary funding.

“We need to make sure that they’re protected. Not just for tourism but to ensure that these areas are protected for the long term,” said Javier Estevez, Sierra Club Florida legislative and political director.

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