The Buckley’s Pass project is an additional navigational access channel connecting the Punta Gorda Isles canal system to Charlotte Harbor through a shorter, more convenient, and direct route than is currently available through the existing Ponce de Leon Inlet harbor access point. The access channel, approximately 1,446 feet long and 60 feet wide, will be cut through an existing mixed wetland and upland area to connecting the city’s canal system to Alligator Creek, which then connects directly to Charlotte Harbor about 1 mile down the creek. 

This additional harbor access has been contemplated for more than 10 years and is envisioned in the Punta Gorda Waterfront Development Master Plan and the TEAM Punta Gorda Citizens Master Plan. Various boards and committees have discussed this potential project and possible means of implementation, including the Waterfront Development Advisory Committee, the Revitalization Committee, the Punta Gorda Isles Canal Advisory Committee, the Burnt Store Isles Canal Advisory Committee, and the 1% Local Option Sales Tax Committee. Spearheaded by Punta Gorda Boater's Alliance and the late Captain John “Jay” Buckley, City Council officially named the new access channel “Buckley’s Pass.”

Credit City Of Punta Gorda

Lastest updates on the project from their website

November 7, 2018 - City Council awarded Special Authorization #3 to Master Agreement with Hans Wilson & Associates for construction engineering services.  

October 31, 2018 - City provided County MSBU (Municipal Service Benefit Units ) Coordinator with Water Access Units assignment information for benefitted parcels

October 22, 2018 - Executed amendments to vacant land contract, rescheduled closings to January 15, 2019 

September  24, 2018 - Issued purchase order for land survey

August 22, 2018 - City approved land purchase

August 7, 2018 - Army Corp Permit No: SAJ-2016-02715 (SP-KRD) approved