Church by the Sea Embarks on $1.6 Million Living Seawall Project in Fort Lauderdale
The Church by the Sea in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has raised over $1.6 million to build a "living seawall" along its coastline. This innovative structure, made from 3D-printed concrete panels designed to mimic mangrove roots, aims to support marine life,…

Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, July 26, 2026 —
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The Church by the Sea in Fort Lauderdale has successfully raised more than $1.6 million to fund the construction of an innovative “living seawall” along its coastal property.
The project, described as the largest privately funded living seawall in Florida, utilizes 3D-printed concrete panels engineered to replicate the complex structure of mangrove roots. This design aims to foster marine habitats, enhance water quality, and address the ongoing deterioration of the church’s existing seawall.
The initiative seeks to provide a sustainable solution for coastal erosion while simultaneously creating a supportive environment for local marine ecosystems. By mimicking natural root systems, the seawall is intended to offer shelter and surfaces for various sea creatures, potentially boosting biodiversity in the area.
In addition to its ecological benefits, the project is envisioned as a model for environmental stewardship within the broader Fort Lauderdale community. Church officials have expressed hope that this endeavor will encourage other organizations and individuals to consider similar nature-based solutions for coastal protection and restoration.
The specific timeline for the construction and the expected lifespan of the living seawall were not detailed in the provided information. Further details regarding the phases of construction and the long-term monitoring plans for the seawall’s effectiveness are also pending.
Story summarized from the original created by By Lauren Costantino and Alex Harris, Miami Herald (TNS) on www.tampabay.com, see more information here.