Cooper Riverside Park is getting a transformative upgrade that will create a stunning gateway to downtown’s waterfront. Nestled between the Convention Center and Maritime Museum, this beloved park sits on historic ground that once served as one of Mobile’s original banana docks. Now the City is addressing decades of wear on the aging wharf, bulkhead, and underground infrastructure by completely rebuilding these essential structures with modern technology. The project will install approximately 460 ft of new bulkhead, updated sidewalks, and improved lighting, all designed to create a safe, accessible, and environmentally responsible space. Once complete, the enhanced park will serve as Mobile’s premier waterfront destination, ready to welcome visitors and host community events for generations to come.
This project is an implementation initiative of the Riverfront Revitalization Masterplan, which recommended the creation of a “Walk of Fame” along Water Street in front of the Convention Center, and additional improvements around the convention center including mixed-use development.
What the project will address
Shoreline Protection
The project addresses critical safety concerns by replacing approximately 401 feet of bulkhead along the Great Lawn waterfront and an additional approximately 60 feet along the South Coffer Cell. These structures protect both the park and downtown Mobile from storm surge, wave action from port activities, and ongoing erosion.
Enhanced Public Access
New multi-level waterfront design will feature upper and lower elevations connected by curvilinear seating walls, creating a closer shoreline experience for visitors. The improvements will restore full public access to areas that have been closed due to safety concerns.
Expanded Event Space
The Great Lawn will be enhanced with expanded green space and new walking paths, allowing the park to accommodate larger outdoor events and create better connectivity with the Convention Center and the Maritime Museum.
Improved Accessibility
All upgrades will meet modern accessibility standards, ensuring visitors of all abilities can enjoy the riverfront views and amenities through barrier-free pathways and seating areas.
Environmental Benefits
Beyond recreation, the project will halt ongoing ecological damage from erosion and protect critical natural resources in Mobile Bay, supporting the area’s unique estuarine ecosystem.
Bulkhead Before / After
Great Lawn Plan
Construction photos
Timeline
Phase 1: Shoreline Stabilization (Currently Underway)
Installation of new bulkhead structures along the Great Lawn and South Coffer Cell areas.
Phase 2: Upland Enhancements
Great Lawn improvements, expanded green space, and new walking paths will begin as shoreline work nears completion.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this project necessary?
The existing shoreline structures are failing and pose safety risks to visitors. Parts of the waterfront have been closed to public access due to these concerns. Without repairs, continued erosion could cause significant damage to both the park and downtown infrastructure.
What will happen to the statue during construction?
The statue above the South Coffer Cell will be temporarily removed for safety during construction and reinstalled once the new structures are complete.
Will the park remain open during construction?
While certain areas will be temporarily restricted for safety, the City is working to maintain public access to as much of the park as possible throughout the construction process.
How will this project handle storm protection?
The new bulkhead structures are designed with modern engineering to better withstand tropical storms, hurricanes, and wave action from port activities, providing enhanced protection for both the park and downtown Mobile.
When will the project be completed?
The shoreline stabilization work is currently underway, with upland enhancements scheduled to begin as the bulkhead construction nears completion. Specific timeline updates will be provided as the project progresses.
How will this affect events at the park?
Once complete, the expanded green space and improved infrastructure will actually allow the park to host larger events and work more seamlessly with activities at the adjacent Convention Center.
What about environmental impacts?
The project is designed to be environmentally responsible and will actually help protect Mobile Bay’s ecosystem by stopping ongoing erosion and natural resource damage. The improvements align with Alabama’s coastal conservation goals.
Who's involved
Who is involved?
This project is being implemented by the City of Mobile with the support of a variety of contractors.
Project Lead: Programs and Project Management Department, City of Mobile
City Contact: Jake Clements (Project Manager), 251-208-1138
What’s on your mind?
Send us your ideas or questions about Cooper Riverside Park. Use the form below or contact the City’s project manager.