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Construction of a new recreational snorkel reef at Red Reef Park in Boca Raton has been completed and it will enhance the park’s current reef into an extended snorkeling trail for beachgoers.
The project began on Aug. 30, when a barge and crane placed the artificial reef modules in the same vicinity just offshore.
Red Reef Park features a snorkeling area that consists of six artificial reef modules located just offshore in the southern end of the park. The new reef added more than 15 additional modules — constructed from limestone — to create a larger recreational area for snorkeling.
“We are excited for the new reef at Red Reef Park as it will create an enhanced snorkeling experience for beachgoers,” a city spokeswoman said. “We’re looking forward to it creating a safe and flourishing habitat for our marine life as well.”
Once colonized, the new reef is expected to attract fish species like those that currently exist in the area, including sergeant major, parrotfish, bar jack, spottail pinfish, molly miller and more.
Located at 1400 N. Ocean Blvd., Red Reef Park is a 39.7-acre oceanfront park that features picnic and barbeque areas, a boardwalk, walking trails and a playground. The snorkel reef is a popular attraction for residents and visitors.
Gary Curreri is a South Florida Community News correspondent.
