The Huizenga Park Reimagined project is moving forward with the recent construction commencement, the Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and the Huizenga Park Foundation announced after years of planning, designing and engaging the community. MBR Construction, Inc. will serve as the general contractor, while KEITH will provide construction, engineering and inspection (CEI) services to enhance the area for the Fort Lauderdale community.
“We could not be more excited for renovations to begin on Huizenga Park,” says Jenni Morejon, president and CEO of the Fort Lauderdale DDA. “This project represents the DDA’s longstanding commitment to make Downtown Fort Lauderdale the most desired, livable community in the region. MBR and KEITH’s proven track record make them the perfect fit to carry out construction. Their dedication to improving public spaces in South Florida has not gone unnoticed, and they will do a phenomenal job transforming Huizenga Park.”
Fort Lauderdale-based MBR Construction also transformed the entire SE/SW 2 Street stretch from the Broward Center for the Performing Arts to the U.S. 1 Tunnel.
“We are incredibly honored to partner with the Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority on the revitalization of Huizenga Park,” says Michael Boss, president of MBR Construction. “As a family-owned business, we deeply connect to the Fort Lauderdale community. Huizenga Park is a beloved destination, and we’re excited to transform it into an even more vibrant and welcoming space for the community to enjoy.”
KEITH, a company based in Broward County, has over 60 years of experience designing public spaces throughout South Florida. The team has extensive expertise in developing outstanding public spaces in Fort Lauderdale, including the prominent Las Olas Oceanside Park and the currently in-progress DC Alexander Park.
“Our partnership with the DDA on the Huizenga Park Reimagined project exemplifies KEITH’s commitment to creating, expanding upon, preserving and enhancing our community,” says Paul Weinberg from KEITH. “By combining our expertise with a relentless focus on action and accountability, we are confident in delivering a world-class park to a city that deserves the best.”
Sweetwaters, a new full-service restaurant, will be established at Huizenga Park by the same team behind Miami’s well-known Rusty Pelican. To enhance the park experience, fully-attended public restrooms will also be introduced as a new amenity. The building, generously designed by Stiles Architectural Group as a contribution to the park Foundation, will house the Legacy Wall, honoring the project’s most influential supporters.
The revitalization of the park is anticipated to last slightly more than a year and is scheduled to be unveiled by the conclusion of 2025. Although the park will be inaccessible during construction, a pedestrian pathway along the Riverwalk will remain open for public use.
“This milestone is a major step forward for Huizenga Park and our community,” says Huizenga Park Foundation Chairman Steve Hudson. “It reflects Fort Lauderdale’s commitment to progress while celebrating the incredible leaders that built our community, including my aunt and uncle, Marti and Wayne Huizenga. Huizenga Park has been a cherished gathering place for generations and will continue to be a cornerstone of Downtown Fort Lauderdale for years to come.”
For more details and project updates, visit www.huizengapark.org.
