Monroe County approves $2 million for Pennekamp Discovery Center and Aquarium

Monroe County commissioners voted Monday to allocate $2 million for a new Discovery Center and Aquarium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. The funding helps advance a $52 million project expected to open in 2028 and aimed at expanding education, conservation and tourism at Florida’s first undersea park.

Why it matters: - The $2 million allocation supports a major new visitor attraction at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, one of the Florida Keys’ biggest tourism and conservation assets. - The county’s contribution is the largest single gift to a capital project in the Florida State Parks Foundation’s 33-year history. - The project is designed to deepen public understanding of Florida’s Coral Reef and support stewardship of the only living reef formation on the coast of North America.

What happened: - The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners voted Monday to allocate $2 million for the Discovery Center & Aquarium in Key Largo. - Construction on the $52 million facility is already underway after a groundbreaking ceremony earlier this year. - The Discovery Center & Aquarium is expected to open in 2028.

The details: - The project will include more than 23,000 gallons of aquarium space focused on native marine wildlife and ecosystems. - The facility will feature interactive experiences, exhibits and displays aimed at connecting visitors with Florida’s Coral Reef. - The Florida State Parks Foundation and the Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park are leading a capital campaign to fund interpretive and educational elements. - The center will also support the work of Mote Marine Laboratory, whose scientists have restored more than 200,000 corals to Florida’s reef. - John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park draws about 400,000 visitors a year and remains a destination for scuba diving, saltwater fishing, snorkeling, swimming and paddling.

Between the lines: - The county’s investment signals local backing for a project that blends tourism development with environmental education. - Monroe County leaders are positioning the facility as both a conservation tool and an economic driver for hotels, restaurants and local businesses. - Supporters are framing the project as a long-term public asset for future generations, not just a new attraction.

What's next: - Fundraising and construction will continue ahead of the planned 2028 opening. - The new facility is expected to become a central stop for visitors exploring the Florida Keys and nearby state parks. - The project will move forward alongside ongoing coral restoration work in and around the park.