Rowell’s Waterfront Park is closed for construction; when will it reopen?

A bicyclist rides into Rowell’s Waterfront Park in Key Largo. Enhancements to the bayside park have faced a delay. The park will be closed through Sept. 1 to allow for construction work. FILE PHOTO
A bicyclist rides into Rowell’s Waterfront Park in Key Largo. Enhancements to the bayside park have faced a delay. The park will be closed through Sept. 1 to allow for construction work. FILE PHOTO

Rowell’s Waterfront Park in Key Largo closed this week to allow for the construction of several improvements.

County officials say the park will be closed through Sept. 1. 

“We appreciate the community’s patience as we complete this project,” said John Allen, county parks and beaches director. “Due to unexpected delays, the project has taken longer than originally anticipated. We apologize for any inconvenience and look forward to completing these improvements for the community to enjoy.”

According to the county department, construction at Rowell’s Waterfront Park was halted after an issue was identified that required a redesign of the second phase. During the redesign, the county was awarded additional grant funding, allowing project management and parks and beaches to incorporate several enhancements beyond the original plan.

A second phase of improvements at Rowell’s Park will include a new dog park and fencing, new field and park lighting and upgraded turf for a multiuse field. The parking lot will be expanded, and there will be new trash receptacles, dog water stations, picnic tables and other amenities. 

The improvements in the second phase are funded through a Community Development Block Grant. 

Once phase two is complete, a third and final phase will bring new shade structures, a new playground and a large tiki hut to the waterfront park. Construction is anticipated to begin in early 2027. Phase three is fully funded through a TDC brick-and-mortar grant.

Jim McCarthy
Jim McCarthy is one of the many who escaped the snow and frigid temperatures in Western New York. A former crime & court reporter and city editor for two Western New York newspapers, Jim has been honing his craft since he graduated from St. Bonaventure University in 2014. In his 5-plus years in the Keys, Jim has enjoyed connecting with the community. Jim is past president of the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club. When he's not working, he's busy chasing his son, Lucas, around the house and enjoying time with family.

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