Completed in June 2022, the first phase of the Daytona Riverfront Esplanade is a major accomplishment in the ongoing revitalization of Downtown Daytona Beach. Spanning a mile of Intracoastal Waterway, the 22-acre Riverfront Esplanade is a $31 million privately funded premier gathering space and botanical garden that is expected to be completed this fall. The work of a design team led by Marquis Latimer + Halback, Inc., the esplanade is a transformation of existing green space that is intended to provide a destination for families while spurring economic development in the heart of Daytona’s central business district.
Construction on the Esplanade began in June 2020. The completed portion of the north Esplanade features event lawns, a waterfront running trail, benches and swings, pond ecosystems and focal fountains surrounding the city’s performance venue and concert hall. Still under development, the south Esplanade will include a riparian garden fountain and a 2,700-square-foot interactive water feature with more than 30 spraying vertical and arched nozzles. Formerly Riverfront Park, Riverfront Esplanade is operated and managed by the Brown Riverfront Esplanade Foundation (BREF). BREF is a nonprofit organization that was established by J. Hyatt and Cici Brown. In 2019, BREF entered into a long term lease with the City of Daytona to redevelop, operate and manage the space.
Here are a few photographs from an evening stroll through the Esplanade.
Dr. Josie Rogers’ House
North Lawn
Manatee Plaza
South Lawn
