Located in an economically challenged portion of the County, this project is a new beginning for the social, educational, and recreational needs of this diverse neighborhood. As the prime consultant for the theming, design, and project management for this district park and community center, Marquis Latimer + Halback, Inc. developed a master plan and design prototype that is being used for other underserved areas across the County.

The park offers an 18,000 sq. ft. community center, pool, interactive water feature, and competition and multi-purpose recreation fields. The prototype developed by the Consultant, integrates specific elements of the neighborhood into the design and furnishings. The ‘neighborhood street’ of the community center building becomes the axis that connects the recreational areas of the park.

The revitalization of Lake Eola Park and design of subsequent additions returned to the public an important, historic landmark. Frederick Halback developed a master plan and design that addressed a multitude of issues, ranging from image to capital improvements. Working with the city, civic groups, the police department, and adjacent businesses, a comprehensive plan evolved. Further additions enlarged the park by closing streets and expanding the lake.

Lake Eola Park was returned to the public as the ‘civic living room’ for all residents and visitors. With over 1 mile of waterfront and an abundance of features and garden spaces, it has become the place for festivals, farmer’s markets, concerts, public art, civic memorials, protests, celebrations, quiet reflections, and family gatherings.

Executed by Frederick Halback as Founder & Senior Principal of Herbert-Halback, Inc.

From the opening of the Horn in the West outdoor drama over 60 years ago, Daniel Boone Park has been the place ‘where Boone tells its story.’ Marquis Latimer + Halback, Inc. led a community effort to create a visioning master plan for this central park and visitor orientation facility. In addition to the revitalization of the amphitheater facility, the park will expand the adjacent native gardens and park spaces to knit the site together. A multi-use facility will also provide space for the local farmers’ market, community meeting space, and a visitor orientation center.

A thoughtful, long-term master plan guides the community and stakeholders in the redevelopment and ‘re-branding’ of this historic and culturally significant central park space.

Located adjacent to the Black Warrior River on the edge of the downtown core, this 18-acre site contains remnants of a former landfill. Marquis Latimer + Halback, Inc. was invited to lead a team in the master planning and design of this new outdoor performing venue through a design competition. Requirements included the development of an outdoor performing arts venue and park that also serves the needs of the University of Alabama community.

The team created a vision for a new amphitheater and festival park that reconnects the historic downtown with the new riverwalk. Using the backdrop of the river and one of the nation’s longest wooden trestle railroad bridges, the amphitheater provides fixed and grass seating for 8,000. This flexibility allows for a variety of performances ranging from concerts and theatre to pep rallies for the nearby university.

Frederick Halback provided project management, master planning, and design for the new Little Manatee River State Recreation Area. The park includes 2.5 miles of roadway, entrance station, parking areas, picnic facilities, canoe launch, camping areas, and trailheads for hiking and horseback riding.

At Deleon Springs State Park, Frederick Halback developed plans for an improved entry road and parking. Assessment of the spring bulkhead that controlled the 18 million gallons a day output showed an imminent failure requiring the design of a new structure.

Executed by Frederick Halback as Founder & Senior Principal of Herbert-Halback, Inc.

Loch Haven Park was once an overused park with disjointed cultural facilities throughout,

100-year-old live oak trees, and a major road bisecting the space. With great bones, the park is surrounded on three sides by lakes. The challenge was to create a city showcase for the arts, a place for gatherings and festivals, and a place to welcome new cultural partners. Frederick Halback developed a master plan and subsequent detailed design for all park and landscape architectural elements.

The major road that bisects the park was relocated; internal roads were depressed into the ridge, separating vehicles and pedestrians. These techniques provided unobstructed views across a wide 8-acre great lawn to the lakes below. A variety of spaces were created for either large groups or solitary contemplation. A new grand entrance, involving a fountain and sculpture plaza, welcomes a series of existing and new cultural organizations.

Executed by Frederick Halback as Founder & Senior Principal of Herbert-Halback, Inc.