This project involves the planning, design, and implementation of stormwater management and recreational improvements associated with the South Lake Howard Nature Park Expansion in Winter Haven, Florida. The effort focuses on enhancing water quality within Lake Howard while expanding and improving public park infrastructure across existing and newly acquired parcels.
The project includes the integration of an approximately 8.06-acre expansion parcel with the existing South Lake Howard Nature Park system. The site is uniquely situated among existing parklands, adjacent roadways, and surrounding neighborhoods, and consists of both upland and wetland habitats. Improvements are designed to complement the existing park framework while strengthening stormwater treatment performance prior to discharge into Lake Howard.
Regional flood study and recreational improvements. Primary components of the project include stormwater system enhancements, environmental restoration, and recreational amenities. Stormwater improvements are intended to reduce nutrient loading and improve water quality through the use of low impact development strategies and treatment systems such as bioswales, functional wetlands, and other water quality infrastructure. These elements are integrated with the existing system of ponds and treatment features that were originally developed to provide water quality treatment prior to discharge to Lake Howard.
In addition to stormwater improvements, the project incorporates park expansion elements including trail systems, passive recreation areas, and educational features that support public use while maintaining environmental sensitivity. The overall design approach emphasizes connectivity to the existing park, compatibility with surrounding land uses, and enhancement of both ecological and recreational value.
Services associated with the project include site planning, civil engineering design, stormwater modeling and analysis, utility coordination, permitting support, and agency coordination with the City of Winter Haven and applicable regulatory entities. The project is being advanced under a phased implementation approach, allowing flexibility in construction sequencing while maintaining alignment with funding and grant requirements.
The resulting improvements are intended to provide measurable water quality benefits to Lake Howard while expanding recreational opportunities and supporting long-term environmental stewardship within the City’s Chain of Lakes system.