Whether you’re watching the sunrise over the Intracoastal or keeping an eye on the kids in the water, an observation deck (often called a “double-decker” or “party deck”) is the ultimate upgrade for your waterfront property. At North Florida Marine Construction, we specialize in engineering and building custom observation decks directly over your existing boat lift and dock structure.

Serving all of Northeast Florida—from the quiet creeks of St. Johns to the coastal waters of Jacksonville and Amelia Island—we help homeowners maximize their square footage without expanding their footprint.

Top 10 Reasons to Add an Observation Deck to Your Dock

Adding a second level to your marine structure isn’t just about looks; it’s about lifestyle and longevity. Here is why Northeast Florida homeowners are making the upgrade:

1. Unmatched Panoramic Views: Elevating your vantage point by just 10 feet can reveal horizons and sunsets you simply can’t see from the waterline.
2. Superior Boat Protection: By building a roof-style deck over your boat lift, you provide a permanent shield against harsh Florida UV rays and heavy rain, preserving your boat’s gel coat and upholstery.
3. Premier Bird & Wildlife Watching: Northeast Florida is a hub for Roseate Spoonbills, Herons, and Dolphins. An elevated deck puts you at eye level with the treetops and gives you a better angle to spot marine life.
4. Increased Property Value: A “double-decker” dock is a high-end feature that sets your home apart in the real estate market, offering a significant “wow factor” for potential buyers.
5. Maximize Your Footprint: If your shoreline is small, you can’t always build out. Building up allows you to double your usable entertainment space without violating side-lot setbacks.
6. The Ultimate Social Hub: From 4th of July fireworks to evening cocktails, an observation deck is the perfect breeze-catching spot for entertaining friends and family.
7. Enhanced Structural Integrity: When we add a deck, we often reinforce the existing pilings and framework, ensuring your entire dock structure is sturdier and more resilient against storm surges.
8. Better Airflow: It gets hot in Florida! Stepping up to a second level often puts you above the shoreline brush, allowing you to catch the coastal breezes that don’t reach the ground level.
9. Reduced Maintenance for the Lower Dock: The upper deck acts as a giant umbrella, keeping the lower dock boards shaded and dry, which slows down wood rot and helps your stain last longer.
10. A Private Escape: Sometimes you just need a quiet place away from the house. An observation deck offers a serene, private sanctuary right over the water.

Ready to Upgrade Your Waterfront Experience?

Don’t just settle for a place to tie up your boat. Turn your dock into a destination. North Florida Marine Construction combines expert engineering with premium materials to ensure your observation deck is safe, durable, and beautiful.

Contact us today for a consultation and let’s start building your view!

Welcome to North Florida Marine, your trusted partner for premium boat lift solutions and waterfront enhancements in Jacksonville and the surrounding North Florida region. We’re excited to introduce our latest service: custom party deck installations designed specifically for your boat lift. Transform your ordinary dock into an extraordinary entertainment hub where family gatherings, sunset cocktails, and unforgettable water views come together seamlessly.

Why Add a Party Deck to Your Boat Lift?

Imagine stepping off your boat onto a spacious, durable deck elevated above the water—perfect for lounging, grilling, or hosting friends without ever leaving your waterfront paradise. Our party decks are engineered additions to existing or new boat lifts, providing a stable, weather-resistant platform that maximizes your property’s potential. Built with high-quality marine-grade materials like composite decking and aluminum framing, these decks withstand Jacksonville’s humid climate, salt air, and tidal fluctuations while adding significant value to your home.

In Jacksonville’s vibrant boating community, where the St. Johns River and Intracoastal Waterway beckon year-round, a party deck isn’t just an upgrade—it’s an investment in lifestyle. Whether you’re in Riverside, Ortega, or along the beaches, our installations blend functionality with elegance, featuring options like built-in seating, lighting, railings, and even integrated coolers. Plus, as a compliant addition under local regulations (including Duval County’s Manatee Protection Plan), your new deck ensures safe, eco-friendly enjoyment.

Recent projects in Jacksonville highlight the demand: Homeowners on the Ortega River and Arlington areas are raving about their new decks, citing easier access to boats, increased entertaining space, and a boost in property appeal. At North Florida Marine, we handle everything from design consultation to permitting and installation, ensuring a hassle-free process.

Ready to deck out your dock? Contact us today for a free estimate—no obligation, just expert advice tailored to your waterfront.

Frequently Asked Questions: Party Decks on Boat Lifts

Here are answers to the most common questions about constructing and valuing a party deck addition to your boat lift:

1. What is a party deck, and how does it integrate with my boat lift?
   A party deck is a elevated platform attached to your boat lift, creating a multi-purpose space for relaxation and entertaining. It mounts directly to the lift’s frame, using the existing structure for support, and can extend 8-20 feet wide, depending on your lift size and site.
2. How long does construction take?
   Most installations take 3-5 days, weather permitting. This includes site prep, framing, decking, and finishing touches. We coordinate around your schedule to minimize disruption.
3. What materials are used for durability in Jacksonville’s environment?
   We use corrosion-resistant aluminum or galvanized steel for the frame and low-maintenance composite or Trex decking for the surface. These materials resist UV fading, mold, and saltwater exposure, with warranties up to 25 years.
4. Is permitting required, and do you handle it?
   Yes, per Duval County and Florida DEP guidelines, a permit is needed for over-water structures. Our team manages all paperwork, environmental reviews, and inspections to ensure compliance.
5. How much does a party deck add to my property value?
   Waterfront enhancements like party decks can increase home value by 5-10%, according to local real estate trends. They appeal to buyers seeking turnkey boating lifestyles, potentially adding $20,000-$50,000 in resale value based on size and features.
6. What maintenance is involved?
   Minimal—annual inspections for hardware and a simple rinse with freshwater. Unlike wood, our composites won’t splinter or rot, saving you time and money long-term.
7. Can I customize my party deck?
   Absolutely! Options include LED lighting, privacy screens, built-in benches, or even a small wet bar. We design around your vision, boat size, and tidal range for optimal functionality.

Top 10 Largest Waterways in Jacksonville and Dock Availability

Jacksonville’s waterways are a boater’s dream, offering endless exploration along the St. Johns River basin and beyond. Below is a list of the top 10 major waterways (ranked by significance, length, and navigability), drawing from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers data and local management plans. Duval County boasts over 3,800 wet slips and 2,500 dry slips across 187 waterfront facilities, supporting thousands of private and public docks. Dock counts vary by private vs. public use, but these hotspots feature robust infrastructure for mooring and lifts.

At North Florida Marine, we specialize in professional dock repair and maintenance services tailored to the unique demands of the St. Johns River waterfront in Jacksonville, Florida. With years of experience navigating the tidal fluctuations, brackish waters, and seasonal storms that define our local ecosystem, our certified team ensures your marine dock remains safe, sturdy, and compliant with all Florida regulations. Whether your dock has suffered from hurricane damage, wood rot, or structural wear, we use high-quality, marine-grade materials to restore functionality and enhance longevity. As a committed partner to sustainable practices, we responsibly recycle old dock materials—diverting wood, metal, and composites from landfills to support eco-friendly initiatives along the river. Contact us today for a free inspection and quote to keep your waterfront investment thriving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dock Repair

1. What are the most common signs that my dock needs repair?
   Look for visible wood rot, loose or missing pilings, cracked decking, or instability when walking on the structure. Early detection prevents costly replacements.
2. How long does a typical dock repair project take on the St. Johns River?
   Most repairs are completed in 1-3 days, depending on the extent of damage and weather conditions. We prioritize minimal disruption to your riverfront access.
3. Do you handle permitting for dock repairs in Jacksonville?
   Yes, our team manages all necessary permits from the St. Johns River Water Management District and local authorities to ensure compliance.
4. What materials do you use for dock repairs?
   We recommend and install durable, treated lumber, composite decking, and galvanized steel hardware designed to withstand Florida’s humid climate and saltwater exposure.
5. Can you repair docks damaged by hurricanes or boat impacts?
   Absolutely—our expertise includes reinforcing pilings, replacing damaged sections, and adding protective bumpers to safeguard against future incidents.
6. How much does dock repair cost in Jacksonville?
   Costs vary by project size, starting at $1,500 for minor fixes. We’ll provide a detailed, no-obligation estimate after an on-site assessment.
7. Do you offer eco-friendly options for dock repairs?
   Yes, we recycle old materials from your dock, including wood and metal, through certified local programs to minimize environmental impact.
8. What maintenance tips do you recommend to extend dock life?
   Schedule annual inspections, clear debris regularly, and apply protective sealants. Avoid heavy loads and monitor for pest activity like termites.
9. Are your dock repair services insured and warrantied?
   All work is fully insured, and we provide a 1-year warranty on labor and materials for peace of mind.

What Our Customers Say

“North Florida Marine transformed our crumbling St. Johns River dock into a like-new structure in just two days. Their recycling of the old wood was a huge plus—professional, efficient, and green!”
— Mike R., Jacksonville Resident

“After Hurricane Idalia, we thought replacement was inevitable, but their repair crew saved us thousands. Top-notch work and friendly service—highly recommend for any waterfront needs.”
— Sarah L., Riverside Homeowner

“Reliable, knowledgeable, and committed to sustainability. They handled our piling repairs seamlessly and recycled everything on-site. Our dock has never been stronger!”
— Tom H., Boater in Ortega

Jacksonville, FL – October 02, 2025 – Arwood Site Services, a trusted leader in marine construction and site services, today announced that it is offering free estimates for dock piling replacement throughout North Florida. This initiative aims to help waterfront property owners maintain safe and durable docking structures amid the region’s challenging coastal conditions.

With extensive experience in marine projects, Arwood Site Services is equipped to handle dock piling replacements of all sizes. The company’s barge capabilities enable efficient access to hard-to-reach waterfront locations, ensuring minimal disruption to surrounding areas. In addition to replacement services, Arwood Site Services can install new docks tailored to clients’ specific needs, from stationary and floating designs to custom features for residential or commercial use.

“We understand the importance of reliable docks in North Florida’s vibrant coastal communities,” said Bruce Cox, Senior Project Manager of Arwood Site Services. “By offering free estimates, we’re making it easier for property owners to assess and address their piling needs. Our team brings expertise, quality materials, and barge-supported operations to deliver top-tier results every time.

“Property owners interested in a free estimate can contact Arwood Site Services to schedule an on-site evaluation. The company handles the entire process, including permitting, to provide seamless service.

About Arwood Site Services
Arwood Site Services is a family-owned provider of comprehensive site services in North Florida and Southeast Georgia. Specializing in marine construction, demolition, property maintenance, and more, the company delivers high-quality solutions with a commitment to customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.arwoodsiteservices.com.

Media Contact:
Arwood Site Services
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected])
(855) 713-6280
16144 Main Street North, Jacksonville, FL 32218

At North Florida Marine, we specialize in providing high-quality large boulders for robust bulkhead installations along river fronts throughout Northeast Florida. Our durable boulder bulkheads offer superior erosion control, enhancing the stability and aesthetic appeal of your waterfront property while withstanding the region’s unique environmental challenges. Whether you’re protecting a residential shoreline or a commercial riverbank, our expert team ensures seamless integration with natural landscapes. Contact us today for a free estimate and discover how we can fortify your waterfront with strength and style.

Arwood Waste completed the removal of 97L bulkhead located inside the Pine Lakes Golf Course. The golf course was purchased by DR Horton and plans are the redevelop the property for new homes.

Arwood Waste 904-751-2177

Arwood Waste offers a wide range of marine construction services, AW has focused on our management philosophy – “Safety”. AW offers Contract Management, Pre-Project design and budgeting, Contractor & Bid Review, in-plant environmental pond/basin remediation, On-Site Project Management, dredging, Equipment Rigging, pipeline crossings and extraction, Equipment Moving & Relocation, Dismantling, Demolition, Emergency Response Services, as well as piling and shoring.  At our marine facility we offer docks services which includes but not limited to crane service for loading and unloading boats and barges.  Also offered are crew boat and deck barge ferrying services for equipment or supplies from our dock to your destination.  We have the capacity to decommission and process for scrap your retired marine boats, barges, dry docks or other marine equipment that’s on the water.

Site 153 Northside Drive Pine Lakes Subdivision

Safety remains AW’s first priority, which is why we strive to provide our clients with excellent and reliable service. We pride ourselves on impeccable record keeping and low EMR. AW understands safety is critical in environments as complex as marine construction. Through our safety programs, we have established an enviable track record of excellence in safe practices. Our technical expertise, experience and commitment are focused on ensuring accident-free projects for our customers and employees.

This project was contracted to Arwood Waste. Burnham Construction was the general contractor.
Burnham Construction has over 100 combined years of experience in the site work industry. BCI is able to perform complete site development for your project. As a Certified Underground Utilities Contractor, BCI is able to install all the underground utilities required on your site. BCI is FDOT certified. We pride ourselves on having a reputation of providing an excellent quality product in a timely manner for our http://www.burnhamconstructioninc.com/

Green Cove Spring, FL I Roll Off and Commercial Dumpsters Portable Toilet Temporary Fencing, Restroom Trailers, Septic Pumpouts, Potable Storage Rental and Curbside Waste Collection

3545 Rosemary Hill Road, Green Cove Spring, FL 32043
904-302-9518
[email protected]

Office Nationwide Pricing

• Roll Off Dumpsters
• Commercial Dumpsters
• Portable Toilets
• Storage Rental
• General Order Form
• Curbside Collections
• Fencing & Barricades
• Septic Pump Out

Keeping You and the Environment Safe

The new Global Garbage Man Day slogan “Keeping You and the Environment Safe”http://www.garbagemanday.org/  captures the true mission of these individuals. It also strikes at the heart of why we celebrate the women and men in the waste management industry. Performing their jobs day in and day out with excellence keeps our local communities and the world at large safe and clean. Many people may not realize the enormous environmental impacts of recycling programs or how their local sanitation workers are positively impacting the world’s environment. Why do you Love Your Garbage Man? Because they are “Keeping You and the Environment Safe”!

The Rosemary Hill SWMF is located at 3545 Rosemary Hill Road, Green Cove Springs FL 32043. Hours of operation are: Monday thru Saturday – 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Directions from Orange Park/Fleming Island:  South on Highway 17, go 1 mile south of Black Creek bridge and turn right on County Road 315 (second traffic light), go 3 ¼ miles to Rosemary Hill Road, turn right and go ½ mile to site on the right.

Directions from Penney Farms/Kingsley Lake/Keystone Heights:  State Road 16 east to County Road 315 (about ½ mile past Fair Grounds), turn left, go to the first road on the left (Rosemary Hill Road), go about ½ mile to site on the right.

Directions from Middleburg/Clay Hill:  County Road 218 east/south to State Road 16 (Penney Farms), turn left, go approximately 4 1/2 miles to County Road 315 (about ½ mile past Fair Grounds), turn left, go to the first road on the left (Rosemary Hill Road), go about ½ mile to site on the right.

Directions from Doctors Inlet:  County Road 220 east to Highway 17, turn right, go 1 mile past Black Creek bridge and turn right on County Road 315  (second traffic light), go 3 ¼ miles to Rosemary Hill Road, turn right and go ½ mile to site on the right.

This site is for the disposal of the following types of material from any location within Clay County:

• Household garbage.
• Building and Construction Debris (C&D).
• Furniture.
• Yard Trash includes grass clippings, bagged or loose leaves, shrub trimmings, palm fronds, tree parts, and land clearing debris.
• White Goods (refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves, water heaters, freezers, etc.) Pursuant to Florida Statute 823.07(2), it is unlawful for any person knowingly to abandon or discard or to permit to be abandoned or discarded on premises under his or her control any icebox, refrigerator, deep-freeze locker, clothes washer, clothes dryer, or similar airtight unit having an interior storage capacity of 1 1/2 cubic feet or more from which the door has not been removed.
• Tires. Commercially-generated tires must be paid for.
• Residential household hazardous waste, household chemicals, pesticides, paint, empty 55-gallon drums, and propane gas tanks are accepted at the Household Hazardous Waste Center only. Please ask personnel for assistance.
• Medical sharps, like needles and syringes used in home health care, may be contaminated with disease-causing germs and viruses. These must be handled in specially labeled containers. Clay County’s Sharps Disposal Program can help you dispose of these wastes. Call (904) 529-2801.
  

Schedule of Fees

Residents within the unincorporated area of the County, the City of Green Cove Springs, the City of Keystone Heights, and the Town of Orange Park (residents who pay the Solid Waste Disposal Assessment) are allowed to use the Rosemary Hill SWMF and the ECCs. If you reside on a property which pays the Solid Waste Assessment, you are allowed to bring in 500 pounds per calendar week of any type of material at no charge at the Rosemary Hill SWMF. Anything in excess of the 500-pound limit shall be charged as follows:

Class I (garbage) $57 per ton, $0.57 per 20 lbs. after 500 pounds.

Household Hazardous Waste $57 per ton, $0.57 per 20 lbs. after 500 pounds.

Class C & D (building materials) $47 per ton, $0.47 per 20 lbs. after 500 pounds.

Scrap Metal $47 per ton, $0.47 per 20 lbs. after 500 pounds.

Yard Trash (trees, shrubs, etc.) $47 per ton, $0.47 per 20 lbs. after 500 pounds.

Tires & Appliances $114 per ton, $1.14 per 20 lbs. after 500 pounds.

OTR Tires $260 per ton, $2.60 per 20 pounds.

Payment may be made by cash or check ONLY.

If you have a mixed load, it is suggested that you bring in the most expensive material first (tires, appliances) so it will be applied to your 500 pound no charge limit, then anything left will be charged.

If you live within the Town of Penney Farms, you must bring your material to the Rosemary Hill Solid Waste Management Facility. All waste will be charged at the above-stated rates per ton.

See Household Hazardous Waste for information.

If you are a business, please call (904) 284-6374, 269-6374, (904) 533-2111 Ext. 6374, or (352) 473-3711 Ext. 6374 and speak to our Hazardous Waste Coordinator for information concerning disposal and/or charges.

http://www.claycountygov.com/departments/environmental-services/rosemary-hill-solid-waste-management-facility

Anytime, anyplace

With a nationwide network of more than 10,000 dumpster, portable toilet, portable storage and demolition contract providers, Arwood Waste can provide services to homeowners, business owners and general contractors no matter where they are. And all our trucks are equipped with GPS and we have a direct network that keeps us in contact with our drivers to help keep you up to date with service times.

Areas of Service

Dumpster and Portable Toilet Rental Area

Bostwick, Doctors Inlet, East Palatka, Elkton, Fleming Island, Florahome, Grandin, Green Cove Springs, Hastings, Keystone Heights, Lake Geneva, Melrose, Middleburg, Orange Park, Palatka, Penney Farms, Ponte Vedra, Putnam Hall, Saint Johns, Starke

Zip Codes Service Area

32003, 32006, 32007, 32030, 32033, 32043, 32050, 32065, 32067, 32068, 32073, 32079, 32081, 32091, 32092, 32095, 32131, 32138, 32140, 32145, 32160, 32177, 32185, 32212, 32214, 32222, 32223, 32234, 32244, 32256, 32257, 32258, 32259, 32260, 32656, 32666

Counties Service Area

Clay

New Southbank Riverwalk Construction To Begin

Joined by Chief Administrative Officer Karen Bowling and Councilman Don Redman, Mayor Alvin Brown kicked-off construction of the new Southbank Riverwalk and unveiled plans this afternoon at Friendship Fountain. Haskell, CH2MHill and Flagg Design representatives were on hand to give an overview of the project details and projected timeline.
“It’s an honor to be part of a project that will both modernize and preserve the Southbank Riverwalk for future generations,” said Mayor Alvin Brown. “The Riverwalk is a very special place in the heart of our city, and we are making an important investment in our quality of life by ensuring its longevity.”

The scope of work for the project includes the demolition of the existing wood boardwalk structure along the Southbank Riverwalk, and the demolition of the former Jacksonville Maritime Museum and Jacksonville History Center buildings.

The existing Riverwalk was constructed in 1985 with great enthusiasm and support from then-Mayor Jake Godbold, City Council, the Downtown Development Authority, and the City of Jacksonville Public Works Department. After nearly 30 years, the existing walk is in need of reconstruction, and Haskell and its teammates CH2MHill and Flagg Design have partnered with the city for design-build services to deliver the project.

“The new Southbank Riverwalk will bring an inspired vibrancy to our community as a family destination so that all may enjoy our greatest natural asset, the St. Johns River,” said Chris Flagg, President of Flagg Design.

The new Riverwalk construction will consist of the following:

• Approximately 3,000 linear feet of new pre-cast concrete piles and decking
• Approximately 53,000 square feet of colored brick pavers on top of a pre-cast concrete deck. Both are durable and easy to maintain.
• 5,600 linear feet of new steel guardrails along the entire stretch of new boardwalk
• New light poles with energy-efficient LED lighting
• New in-ground lighting, 18 new shade structures, new steel benches, trash receptacles, pet stations, flagpoles, bike racks and new drinking fountains
• Reconstruction of the Navy Memorial feature
• New floating docks
• The new Riverwalk will be ADA compliant

Schedule

The demolition of the existing Southbank Riverwalk will commence in two separate phases. Phase 1 consists of the demolition of the former Jacksonville Maritime Museum and the former Jacksonville History Center buildings adjacent to the Main Street Bridge. Phase 2 consists of the removal of the existing wood structure from the Friendship Fountain connection point all the way to the Duval County School board connection point. New construction will commence once certain phases of demolition are complete.

• Phase 1 Demo Start Date: Sept. 2013
• Phase 2 Demo Start Date: Nov. 2013
• New Riverwalk Construction Start Date: Dec. 2013
• New Riverwalk Construction Completion Date: Sept. 2014

Marine demolition and reconstruction will commence after the 2013 Florida-Georgia football game festivities and will be continuously coordinated around Jaguar football games to ensure a positive game day experience for all fans during construction operations. Additionally, Haskell will coordinate with the city as well as all individual property owners along the Southbank for construction activities. This collaborative effort will help ensure minimal interruptions to the several business operations along the Southbank Riverwalk including the water taxi service, Jax River Cruises, Wyndham hotel, Charthouse Restaurant, Peninsula and Strand Apartments, Gate Riverplace Tower and the Crowne Plaza Riverfront hotel.

Need a new dock? A repair? Perhaps a beautiful deck? Let North Florida Marine Construction make it happen for you.