GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Council members approved the bid from a Jacksonville-based firm for the Palmetto Trail Project, at more than $1.5 million at Tuesday night’s general council meeting.

The winning receiving bid was from EltonAlan, who bested two other bidders. The cost is $1,544,374 and is funded entirely by the state Department of Transportation.

The Palmetto Trail covers Palmetto Avenue from Oak Street to Harbor Street, and along Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard from Palmetto to Vera Francis Hall Park. The length of Palmetto Avenue is encompassed by and runs parallel to U.S. Highway 17. City staff, the project engineer and FDOT staff have all reviewed the bid results and are in agreement to award the project to EltonAlan,” according to city documents.

The city has worked on Palmetto Avenue southbound, which made it a one-way street. Palmetto northbound was expanded with sod to expand the room around the Green Cove Springs welcome sign.

Assistant City Manager and Public Works Director Mike Null said the project has FDOT funding it while the city manages it. The estimated timetable has the project being done more than 200 days after it begins, which it hasn’t yet.

Councilmember Connie Butler said the project is many years in the making. The city’s growth needs projects like the Palmetto Trail Project.

“It’s definitely opening up Green Cove, like an artery,” Connie Butler said of the project. “To me, it’s a fresh look.”

Council members also heard from Sharlene Lane, whose 18-year-old chihuahua was killed by a local dog that community members believe is dangerous. Lane told council members she had gone through regular channels to report the attack. She and others called for action or a system for dangerous dogs.

Council Member Ed Gaw mentioned the county's moves a few months ago to redefine their dangerous dog classifications. Police Chief John Guzman assured the homeowners afterward.

In other business, Finance Director Marlena Guthrie eyed Aug. 4 for workshops reviewing the capital improvement plan and operating budget. On Aug. 9, she recommended reviewing any leftover budget items. Council members approved both dates unanimously.

The city in the coming months will hold meetings about setting the millage rate and adjusting the budget. The fiscal year ends Sept. 30.