Key West Asking Residents for Ideas to Reinvent Mallory Square

One of the most iconic places in all of the Florida Keys is Mallory Square in Key West. This waterfront park is the southernmost public park in the United States and is home to the famous “sunset celebration.” Every night at dusk in Mallory Square, which beautifully frames the setting sun, tourists and residents alike come out in droves to watch the sun set the sky ablaze as it takes a final bow, while street performers, musicians, and craftsman entertain the masses. It is a fun, festive celebration that began back in the late 1960’s. Every night the party begins two hours before sunset, and continues until dark. Attendees can see stunt performers, comedy shows, live music, magicians and more while shopping the booths of local vendors.

The rest of the day, however, Mallory Square largely remains unused. Other than the indoor Shops at Mallory Square, the daytime is definitely downtime on the square. City commissioners have largely decided that this iconic destination is missing a huge opportunity by only taking advantage of this beautiful waterfront park for two hours a day. In response to this, they are looking into doing what is necessary to provide a major upgrade to Mallory Square. Eight top design firms expressed interest in taking the lead on the project. Ultimately, the city went with top architecture and design firm Sasaki Group to spearhead the reinvention of Mallory Square.

Sasaki Group’s vision for the space is about connecting Mallory Square with the flow and flavor of the rest of Key West and creating a hub for the arts and entertainment in the city. They are looking to infuse local food and music into the square to create a cultural experience that is in line with other popular places around Key West, like Duval Street, and create a continuous connection to other popular waterfront areas around the city like Harry Truman Waterfront Park, the Key West Historic Seaport, and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.

But before plans are drawn up and finalized, Sasaki Group wants to hear from the locals. The design firm is looking for opinions and ideas from residents of Key West so that they can better understand the wants and needs of those who live there. By listening to locals they are hoping to gain their support so they can create a Mallory Square that is not just for tourists, but a place that residents of Key West real estate can use and enjoy!

This week, city commissioners will begin negotiations with Sasaki Group to get the project underway. If you live in Key West, be on the lookout for a survey so you can make your voice heard on the future of Mallory Square!