DC Alexander Park By Brooks + Scarpa Architects – A Model of Resilient Coastal Design in Fort Lauderdale

DC Alexander Park, designed by Brooks + Scarpa Architects, is a transformative public park and coastal infrastructure project located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Completed in 2022, this 52,300 m² park exemplifies resilient design, integrating flood mitigation, sustainable landscaping, and public recreation within a vulnerable coastal environment. The project converts a former asphalt parking lot into a vibrant, ecologically sensitive space that balances urban recreation, resilient infrastructure, and environmental restoration.

The park addresses the challenges of coastal flooding, salt spray, and storm surge, which are common in South Florida’s extreme beach conditions. By reimagining the former parking lot, the design introduces coastal dune ecosystems and tropical maritime hardwood hammocks, creating a naturalized upland environment that protects inland investments while providing a dynamic recreational landscape. Rubberized play surfaces integrate seamlessly with vegetated dunes, creating a “boundless playscape” where visitors of all ages can safely explore.

A key feature of DC Alexander Park is its cantilevered beach overlook, rising 25 feet above the site, which provides panoramic views of the shoreline while acting as a resilient infrastructure element against rising sea levels. Ramped access ensures universal accessibility, making the park inclusive for all users. At the park perimeter, restored coastal hammocks function as natural sponges for rainfall and saltwater flooding while enhancing habitat for native flora and fauna.

The northern coastal plaza introduces a shade hammock effect, using native species like Green Buttonwood, Gumbo Limbo, and Seagrape. These species provide filtered light, visual beauty, and ecological benefits, creating a serene public space that doubles as environmental infrastructure. Each design element is intended to showcase how functional resilience can coexist with aesthetic and artistic expression.

DC Alexander Park serves as a blueprint for sustainable urban planning, illustrating how resilient coastal parks can mitigate climate impacts while enhancing community access, public enjoyment, and environmental stewardship. Through the collaboration of landscape architects (PLAN(t)), structural engineers (RGD), civil engineers (Keith Engineering), lighting designers (Sasso), and geotechnical engineers, the park exemplifies a holistic approach to climate-resilient urban landscapes.

In addition to flood protection and public amenities, the park demonstrates how urban spaces can transform hardened infrastructure like seawalls and revetments into beautiful, functional, and environmentally responsible design. By integrating ecological restoration, innovative landscape architecture, and climate adaptation strategies, DC Alexander Park sets a new standard for coastal urbanism.

All the photographs are works Brooks + Scarpa