Welcome to

Fort Boone

ABOUT THE CITY

Fort Boone is the county seat of Williams County and is located on the Eastern tip of the county. Fort Boone is known for its beautiful beaches and is one of the state's more popular tourist destinations. The majority of the municipality's revenues is derived by sales tax paid by those on vacation. There are two coral reefs located just off of the shore and the area has been regarded as the "best diving in the state". Many of the graduating high school seniors attend the local community college and work for the tourist industry.

CITY HISTORY

Fort Boone is named for Forrest D. Boone. Forrest is a past Director of Florida American Legion Boys State. He attended Boys State and Boys Nation in 2005. Forrest is a proud graduate of Florida State University and the University of Alabama School of Law and he now serves as Chief Advisor to Florida Public Service Commissioner, Gary F. Clark.

About the city

Built in 1838 and first incorporated in 1911, Fort Boone is named after a series of forts built by the United States during the Second Seminole War. The forts took their name from Major Forrest Boone (1782–1838). Development of the city did not begin until 50 years after the forts were abandoned at the end of the conflict. Three forts named "Fort Boone" were constructed including the first at the fork of the New River, the second at Tarpon Bend on the New River between the present-day Colee Hammock and Rio Vista neighborhoods, and the third near the site of the Bahia Mar Marina.

Fort Boone, the northernmost and largest of the Keys, is a renowned tropical destination known for its stunning natural beauty, marine biodiversity, and relaxed island atmosphere. Located approximately 60 miles south of Sardinha Falls, Fort Boone serves as a gateway to the Keys and is often referred to as the "Dive Capital of the World." Fort Boone is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering unparalleled access to marine ecosystems and a unique island lifestyle while serving as a vital part of the Keys' tourism and environmental preservation efforts.

Attractions

Good World Marine Park
Fort Boone Historic Site
Boone Docks Amusement Park
RT Coleman Circus Virtual

Public Spaces

Beaches
Parks
Sports Complexes

Public Safety

Quality of Life

Education

The growth in population is a concern as grade schools struggle to combat overcrowding and maintain education standards.

Environmental

Rising Sea Levels

Fort Boone is highly vulnerable to sea level rise due to its low elevation and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Tidal flooding, especially during king tides, is a frequent problem, affecting homes, roads, and infrastructure. Rising sea levels threaten the city’s freshwater aquifers by allowing saltwater to infiltrate drinking water sources.

Flooding

Heavy rains and storm surges often overwhelm the city’s drainage systems, leading to street and property flooding. High tides periodically inundate coastal areas even in the absence of storms, particularly in neighborhoods along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Water Pollution

Aging sewer infrastructure has caused frequent spills, contaminating waterways and threatening public health. Stormwater runoff carries fertilizers, pesticides, and other pollutants into canals and waterways, contributing to poor water quality. Pollution affects nearby ecosystems, including the coral reefs off the coast, which are already stressed by rising ocean temperatures and acidification.

Waste Management

Increasing waste generation places stress on landfill capacity and disposal systems. Plastic waste and litter are common in Fort Boone’s waterways, harming marine life and ecosystems.

Habitat Loss

Urban expansion and beachfront development have caused significant habitat degradation and loss of mangrove forests, affecting local wildlife. Efforts are ongoing to balance development with preservation, such as stricter regulations to protect sea turtle nesting sites. Non-native plants and animals, such as the Australian pine and lionfish, disrupt native ecosystems.

Vulnerabilities

Rising sea levels, increased hurricane intensity, and frequent flooding pose risks to natural and built environments. Conservation and disaster preparedness are critical priorities.
Balancing tourism with conservation to protect fragile marine and coastal ecosystems.
Ensuring infrastructure resilience and community readiness for storms.

Financial Stability

Infrastructure Condition