The City of Oakland Park hosted Shannon Estenoz, Assistant Secretary of the Department of the Interior, recently at City Centennial Park. This visit included a discussion of enhancements that will be funded through a $2.5 million grant awarded by the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program. The funding will enable the City to make significant improvements at City Centennial Park to serve the community.
The National Park Service selected the park and more than 50 other parks in a competitive process. The ORLP program is a nationally competitive, dollar-for-dollar matching grant program that aids communities that lack access to close-by outdoor recreation.
Planned improvements include:
- Green infrastructure and advanced drainage system to enhance sustainability.
- Open-air seating and a performance space with lawn seating for community gatherings, cultural events and performances.
- Multi-use trails and parking compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure accessibility for all visitors.
- Enhanced landscaping and upgraded lighting to create a welcoming and secure environment.
Phase 1 of City Centennial Park, completed in October 2022, introduced five pickleball courts, two basketball courts, an accessible playground, family restrooms, a renovated concession stand and Oakland Park’s first splash pad. City Park was the first of several projects in the Comprehensive Facilities Plan aimed at building Oakland Park’s second century. Funded through a bond that was approved by 67% of voters in 2018, the 10-year redevelopment plan includes projects such as the North Andrews Gardens Community Center, opened in 2023, and Fire Station 9, completed in 2024.
Future phases of City Centennial Park include plans for a new community library, furthering Oakland Park’s role as a center for learning and cultural enrichment. The City also plans to expand the park by repurposing the adjacent public works complex, which will add five acres of green space to the neighborhood. Strategically located in a qualified census tract within the Oakland Park Community Redevelopment Area, the park underscores a commitment to inclusive growth by ensuring all neighborhoods benefit from enhanced resources and amenities.
The design of City Centennial Park incorporates elements featured in other projects, such as North Andrews Gardens Community Center, Bark Park and Dr. Carter G. Woodson Park, which creates a unified aesthetic across the public spaces. Architectural styles, bench and lighting designs, and amenity colors were carefully coordinated to ensure cohesion. This approach not only enhances the visual identity of City facilities but also provides residents and visitors with a welcoming, connected experience.
“City Park is a shining example of our commitment to investing in our community and ensuring every neighborhood has access to high-quality amenities,” said City Manager David Hebert. “Located in a Qualified Census Tract, this park brings much-needed recreational opportunities and green space to an underserved area, fostering community connections and enhancing the quality of life for residents. It reflects our vision of creating a more inclusive, vibrant Oakland Park for generations to come.”
Oakland Park is undergoing transformation. Alongside City projects, private developments are helping to reshape the community, enhance its appeal and solidify its position as a vibrant destination. Numerous investments include:
- BLYS. BLYS features elevated living on a 12-acre development. The mixed-use project includes apartments, townhomes and on-site amenities, including Sprouts Farmers Market and a scenic pedestrian trail along the Middle River.
- Horizon. The Horizon of Oakland Park (HOOP) is a mixed-use development planned for the City Hall site. It will feature high-quality residential units, commercial space, a park, public parking, a future train stop and a pedestrian-focused “living street.” The project aims to stimulate economic growth, support local businesses and enhance walkability and sustainability.
- Oak Tree. This 140-acre development features 50 acres of open space, including 9.3 acres of public parkland and a fitness trail with a modern array of single-family homes and townhouses. This community is home to Oakland Park’s first million-dollar new construction property.
- Oaklyn. The Oaklyn is a sophisticated mixed-use development redefining a major gateway to Oakland Park. Featuring residential units, retail spaces and public amenities, it creates a vibrant, walkable community hub while enhancing the urban landscape. This project, with views of the skyline and the Atlantic Ocean, has revitalized one of the City’s most visible corridors.
- Parc. Parc Residences, steps from The Oaklyn, continues the effort to revitalize a key gateway to Oakland Park. This mixed-use development is under construction. It will offer residential and commercial spaces and modern amenities, which will expand opportunities for living and working close to the beach.
- Sky Building. The Sky Building is a transformative mixed-use project. It includes residential and commercial space to support local businesses and spur economic investment. The City will move its municipal operations to the Sky Building in 2025.
For more information on the “Building Our Second Century” initiative, visit the City of Oakland Park website.