As the Beach Street Streetscape nears completion, the reimaging of the downtown area continues with the transformation of Riverfront Park into the Daytona Beach Riverfront Esplanade.
Work began in the spring on Phase One, which is from Main Street to International Speedway Boulevard (ISB). A new dog park and sweeping event lawn are starting to take shape. A Kress-building inspired restroom that will serve as a gateway to Manatee Island is almost complete. This area will also feature swings for adults and kids, and Bethune Plaza, which is on axis with Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd. Crews are working on a Ranger Station to house park staff. This area will also have an Osprey Tower and the Veterans monument will have color-change fountains added on each side.
The Halifax River Overlook is also nearing completion, which will include an ADA-compliant spiraling walkway and the overlook will be raised about 10 feet. When finished, visitors to this area will be elevated about 15 feet above sea level and able to enjoy enhanced views of the area. The walkway will also be bordered by large coquina boulders, knitting it into the water’s edge.
Phase One is scheduled to be complete in March, and then Phase Two will begin, which is from ISB to Orange Ave. This area will feature four gardens—Coastal Dune, Palm, River and Rose, as well as an iconic splash pad. The park is scheduled to open late 2021.