Horton Park Shoreline Protection

Client: City of Cape Coral

Date: 2006 – 2012

Horton Park is located at ICW Marker 60 on the Caloosahatchee River, just south of the Veterans Memorial Bridge and Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve.  The shoreline at Horton Park along the Caloosahatchee River had been severely eroded and made worse by storm events.  A large scarp, up to 6 feet high, extended along the entire eastern propertyline, causing loss of land and creating a public safety hazard.  Erosion also threatened the native trees and wetlands plants inhabiting the park.  Federal funding was subsequently obtained by the City of Cape Coral for restoration and protection of the park shoreline.

CEC provided comprehensive services for the design, permitting, and construction oversight of the shoreline stabilization project.  The specific tasks included the following:

• conduct topographic, vegetation, jet probe, and bathymetric surveys;
• prepare feasibility analysis of bulkhead structure, revetment or other shoreline stabilization alternatives;
• prepare conceptual repair plans addressing such factors as water access, view corridors, construction costs, and feasibility;
• prepare and submit an ERP application to permitting agencies;
• respond to Agency Requests for Additional Information (RAI);
• prepare construction plans and specifications; and
• provide construction administration, construction stake out, and project Certifications.

A key factor in the successful permitting and construction of the coastal protection seawall was the innovative construction methods proposed in the design. This allowed for the construction of the structure without impacting the existing native wetland and upland vegetation that are adjacent to the seawall, and which were threatened by the extreme erosion.

In 2012 the City embarked on additional park improvements including repair and restoration of the public boat ramp and accessory docks, which included making the facility ADA accessible. CEC provided comprehensive design and permitting services and supported the City in construction management and oversight.