A Coastal Restoration Project Protecting Public Parkland, Wildlife Habitat, and the Choctawhatchee Bay Shoreline
Veterans Park Shoreline Restoration
Okaloosa Island, Florida
A Nature-Based Shoreline Restoration Project for Long-Term Coastal Protection
Empire Builders Group was selected for the Veterans Park Shoreline Restoration project for Okaloosa County, a coastal improvement project designed to help protect the shoreline near Veterans Park and Marler Park along the Choctawhatchee Bay.
This project focused on reducing shoreline erosion, improving long-term coastal resilience, and supporting the surrounding natural habitat through a living shoreline approach. The work included breakwater construction, boardwalk improvements, concrete sidewalk areas, curb ramps, earthwork, and saltmarsh restoration.
Rather than relying only on traditional shoreline barriers, the project used a nature-based solution designed to help reduce wave energy, stabilize the shoreline, and enhance the coastal ecosystem for future public use.
Built to Protect the Shoreline While Preserving the Natural Setting
KEY FEATURES
The Veterans Park Shoreline Restoration project required careful coordination within a sensitive coastal environment. Work was performed around public park areas, waterfront access points, native vegetation, and habitat areas that support birds, marine life, and other wildlife along the Choctawhatchee Bay.
Key project elements included the construction of sixteen breakwaters, raised timber boardwalk sections with composite decking, concrete sidewalk improvements, curb ramps, saltmarsh creation areas, and saltmarsh enhancement areas. These improvements help protect the shoreline, improve public access, and support the long-term health of the park’s natural surroundings.
Feature List
- Living shoreline construction
- Raised timber boardwalk sections
- Composite decking
- Concrete sidewalk improvements
- Curb ramps
- Earthwork
- Saltmarsh restoration plantings
- Saltmarsh creation areas
- Saltmarsh enhancement areas
Coastal erosion protection - Public park access improvements
- Sensitive-site construction coordination