Edgewater Wetland Park Moves Forward After Groundbreaking

Date: April 22, 2026

Written by: Courtney Sebastianelli, Public Information Officer

EDGEWATER, Fla. — When it comes to water, it’s easy to think it’s all connected. But in the case of Wetland Park in Edgewater, it’s not.

Following the groundbreaking ceremony earlier this month, construction is now underway on the City’s new Wetland Park—an environmental project designed to improve water quality in the Indian River Lagoon while also creating a natural space for the community.

As work begins, City leaders say the project marks an important milestone for Edgewater.

“This project has been a long time in the making, and we’re excited to see construction begin,” said City Manager Joe Mahoney. “It’s an important step forward in protecting the lagoon and investing in Edgewater’s future.”

A Project Designed to Clean Water

The Wetland Park is designed to manage reclaimed water, which is highly treated wastewater that can be safely reused. When that water isn’t needed for irrigation, it has traditionally been discharged into the lagoon.

The new system will instead send that water through a series of wetlands, where plants and soil naturally remove nutrients before the water seeps into the ground. This helps protect the lagoon and improve overall water quality.

“We’re taking water that would otherwise go into the lagoon and giving it one more level of natural treatment,” Mahoney said. “That’s a meaningful benefit for the health of our waterways.”

Not Part of the Stormwater System

Because the project involves visible water, some residents have asked whether it is connected to flooding or stormwater drainage. City officials say it is not.

The wetland does not collect rainwater from streets or neighborhoods, and it is not designed to prevent flooding. The water in the system is reclaimed water that is carefully managed as part of a treatment process.

“We understand why residents might connect this project to flooding, but it serves a completely different purpose,” Mahoney said. “This system is designed for reclaimed water, not stormwater.”

Stormwater Plan Coming in May

Stormwater, which includes rainfall and runoff, is handled through a separate system across the city. Edgewater is currently finalizing a Stormwater Master Plan, expected to be released in May, which will focus on identifying drainage improvements and reducing flooding.

“Addressing flooding remains a priority for the City,” Mahoney said. “That’s why we’re finalizing a Stormwater Master Plan to guide future improvements across Edgewater.”

Looking Ahead

With construction now underway, the Wetland Park represents a long-term investment in protecting the Indian River Lagoon while also creating a natural space for the community to enjoy.

“This is a long-term investment in both our environment and our community,” Mahoney said. “It’s something residents will be able to see, experience, and benefit from for years to come.”