"Beyond the Interstate"

We like to share with you places of authenticity beyond the interstate.

In this instance, this posting might more aptly be headlined "Getting connected to the Interstate".

It seems a key moment in the history of Palm Coast was when it became connected to the interstate.

As mentioned in previous postings, Palm Coast was first developed by ITT Community Development Corporation (Levitt) in 1969.  Grand opening of Palm Coast occurred on October 29, 1970.

Originally, visitors came from A1A to a small dock on the east side of the Intracoastal Waterway and proceeded by boat to the Welcome Center on the main canal. Prospective buyers of property were taken by elevator to the top of the tower.

It was not until 1991 that a Palm Coast  interchange on I-95 opened.

But  the impact on the community was significant.

Just before the intersection's opening, the local population was 18,556. The current population now exceeds 80,000. Palm Coast has been one of the fastest growing area's in the country (notwithstanding the severe impact of the Great Recession).

Of course, there are many reasons for this growth. But the impact of the I-95 interchange cannot be underestimated.

Historical Source and Photo Credits: Hammock Dunes, City of Palm Coast, Palm Coast (FL) (Images of America) by Arthur E. Dycke (2003, Arcadia Publishing)