The City of Jacksonville is set to begin removal of an abandoned and derelict vessel (ADV) on Monday, February 15. City crews will dismantle and dispose of a large abandoned boat at 8AM in the parking lot of the Marina Cafe.
The boat partially sank in the New River but was pulled ashore so it could be easily dismantled. This will be the first vessel removed as part of an ADV ordinance recently adopted by the City Council.
Removal of this boat is a team effort involving multiple City departments. The City’s Fleet Services Division will carefully cut the boat apart, Jacksonville Fire and Emergency Services will assist in the demolition, the Streets Division will haul the debris away, and the Stormwater and Water Quality Division will monitor the safety of the river.
During an initial assessment 15 boats were identified as a potential ADV. These boats pose navigational and environmental hazards and are a threat to private property. Some of these boats are partially sunk and can spill oil or other chemicals into the New River. Other boats identified are grounded ashore but are at risk of floating free and colliding with nearby boats or docks.