LASN is a photographically oriented, professional journal featuring topics of concern and state-of-the-art projects designed or influenced by registered Landscape Architects.
Issue link: https://landscapearchitect.epubxp.com/i/107181
were considered. (Note: Riverow is a block of commercial buildings on the eastern end of Riverwalk.) As expected, individual businesses initiated numerous enhancements since the completion of the project, including access to the rear façades of these historic buildings. Years of erosion along the river's edge and frequent flooding were key causes of concern behind Riverow, and a potential maintenance headache for the proposed trail. Form and function became major design objectives for the improvements. An exposed village sewer main and seriously eroded banks were concurrently addressed after studying the river's hydraulics. Stone armoring of the bank was added to protect these elements. Longevity and maintenance were key concerns, as all park features located below the 100-year flood elevation were designed to withstand floodwater levels, ice flows and debris with minimum damage or cleanup expense. Park features include custom precast seat blocks that incorporate submersible LED lighting. All pathways maintain a five percent or less grade to eliminate the need for handrails. Since opening, the trail has withstood seasonal flooding. September 8, 2011 saw flash flooding in Owego and the Riverwalk from Hurricane Irene/ Tropical Storm Lee. The flooding devastated over 80 percent of the village. Design Overview The Owego Riverwalk consists of three major areas: Draper Park, Ahwaga Park (nicknamed Mayor's Park) and the connecting riverbank trail. Ahwaga is a small park at the eastern end; Draper is a larger park west of Court Street Bridge. Top & Bottom The old, narrow passage separating the Riverow buildings and the river were certainly not inviting, particularly at night. Today, the 10-ft. wide quarter-mile stretch of wood-patterned concrete path mimics the original wooden sidewalks at the turn of the 20th century. The backs of some of the basements still display steel boat moorings mounted to the foundations, and suspended brackets once used to support loading docks, testimony to the once thriving river commerce. The building stone is etched from spring ice flows of years past. Now, the roof runoff is captured in downspouts and carried below the trail. February 2013 51