The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Florida Chapter recently recognized the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District 7 Interstate 75 (I-75) Northbound Hillsborough County Rest Area Project with a Merit Award in the Open Space category.
The ASLA Florida Design Awards recognize projects that combine aesthetic and environmental aspects to advance, expand, and honor landscape architecture initiatives. The award was formally accepted by Stanley Hinde, RLA, and Michael Kidde, RLA, on behalf of the firm during the 2026 ASLA Florida Gala in Lake Buena Vista.
KCI provided landscape architecture and site design services for the I-75 Northbound Rest Area, transforming the site into a welcoming destination that reflects Florida’s natural environment while supporting the operational needs of the Florida Department of Transportation. Working from a blank canvas, our team developed a sustainable landscape plan featuring native and Florida-friendly plantings, including cypress trees, live oaks, Sabal palms, ornamental grasses, and other vegetation that enhances aesthetics and supports local ecology. Our team incorporated natural landscape elements, such as pond enhancements and decorative boulders, while maintaining clear sight lines, traveler safety, and long-term maintenance efficiency. Through thoughtful planning and context-sensitive design, KCI created a functional and visually appealing rest area landscape that improves the traveler experience and complements the surrounding Florida environment.