KCI, in collaboration with the National Aquarium, led the development of the world’s first tidal, low-freeboard, variable ballast floating wetland.
This innovative project sought to restore ecological balance to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Spanning a decade of research, design, and construction, the project features a modular, scalable platform system and a patent-pending buoyancy mechanism that adapts to tidal conditions, plant growth, and marine fouling. KCI’s multidisciplinary Northeast team, including marine, structural, civil, geotechnical, and environmental engineers, overcame unprecedented regulatory and environmental challenges to deliver this one-of-a-kind structure. The wetland integrates oyster habitats, air diffusers, and native plantings to improve water quality and support biodiversity.
Since its completion, it has attracted native species such as otters, herons, and fish, demonstrating its success in habitat restoration. The wetland also serves as a free, interactive exhibit that engages thousands of visitors annually in environmental education. This project sets a new standard for urban ecological engineering and strengthens KCI’s longstanding partnership with the National Aquarium.
