Fort Lauderdale Mayor’s Newsletter: February 2026 [Revamped Huizenga Park drawing large crowds downtown]

The following highlights are from the Mayor of Fort Lauderdale’s February 2026 newsletter –

🌿 Downtown Fort Lauderdale’s Momentum Continues: Huizenga Park Reopens

Downtown Fort Lauderdale just turned a major corner with the reopening of Huizenga Park after a two-year, $15 million transformation. The refreshed green space at Las Olas Boulevard and the New River now features a larger lawn, improved shade, expanded seating, an upgraded Riverwalk edge, and inviting gathering areas that truly elevate the downtown lifestyle.

Opening weekend drew strong crowds enjoying yoga, live music, vendors, art, family activities, and the enhanced dog park and play areas. This is more than a park renovation — it’s a signal that downtown Fort Lauderdale continues to evolve into a vibrant, walkable urban core. With Sweetwaters expected to open later this year, daily activity and foot traffic will only continue to grow.

Real Estate Takeaway: Proximity to well-designed public spaces consistently strengthens long-term property value. Condos and residences near Las Olas and the Riverwalk benefit directly from lifestyle-driven demand.

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💧 Flood Protection Improvements = Real Savings for Homeowners

Fort Lauderdale’s participation in FEMA’s Community Rating System is currently saving residents approximately $4.7 million per year through a 15% flood insurance discount. City leaders are actively working to improve the rating, which could increase the discount to 25% — generating a total of nearly $7.9 million in annual savings for property owners.

A new Property Resiliency Outreach Program under Fortify Lauderdale will help homeowners better understand flood risk, preparedness strategies, and insurance basics — positioning the city for stronger resilience long term.

Real Estate Takeaway: Lower flood insurance premiums directly impact affordability and buyer confidence. Improvements in flood ratings make Fort Lauderdale properties more attractive to both primary residents and investors.

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🚗 SE 17th Street Bridge Schedule Change Eases Commutes

Traffic relief along Southeast 17th Street is already showing results. The Port Everglades bypass road is now open, and following a successful pilot program, the U.S. Coast Guard has permanently reduced bridge openings during weekday rush hours (7:30–8:30 a.m. and 4:30–5:30 p.m.).

Prioritizing commuter traffic during peak times helps improve daily flow while maintaining vessel operations.

Real Estate Takeaway: Infrastructure improvements matter. Reduced congestion enhances livability — especially for downtown condo owners, harbor communities, and buyers seeking easy access to the beach, airport, and Port Everglades.

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Fort Lauderdale isn’t standing still. Between upgraded public spaces, resilience initiatives, and infrastructure improvements, the city continues strengthening both lifestyle appeal and long-term real estate fundamentals.