The City of Leesburg held the official groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday morning for its new Venetian Cove Marina operations building. The event took place at the marina site, 250 Ball Park Road.

The project includes removal of the current building and construction of a new facility designed to enhance services for marina visitors and the broader community. When completed, the building will feature two offices, a reception area, restrooms and covered outdoor seating. It will also provide restroom access for boaters using the Venetian Gardens boat ramp and for visitors enjoying the park.

During construction, a temporary marina office will be located on site. Operations are expected to continue as normal with minimal impact to the public.

Funding for the $1.1 million project comes through a Legislative Priority Grant and contributions from the city. The marina design was developed by Edgewater Group and construction will be carried out by GSB Construction & Development Inc. of Leesburg.

Mayor Alan Reisman called the groundbreaking a great day for the City of Leesburg.

“These improvements not only provide new opportunities for our residents but also strengthen local eco-tourism, education, and conservation efforts across the Harris Chain,” he says. “With the help of Senator Truenow and Representative Cobb, we secured $250,000 in funding for the new marina building. In addition, we are adding 42 new docks—bringing the total to 86—which are projected to have a very short return on investment of just seven years. I want to extend my sincere thanks to our hardworking city staff, the Recreation Advisory Board, our city administration, and my fellow commissioners. Their vision, dedication, and teamwork have brought this project to life, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we are accomplishing together.”

Photos provided by Alan Reisman, D’mani Nettles and City of Leesburg