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
Right The fishing/seating area located opposite the future "Gateway Space" offers direct access to the river. Boat moorings for canoes and kayaks are installed in faces of the lower steps. The spring flooding has deposited silt on the lower patterned concrete steps. Above The precast concrete seat blocks along the trail are patterned and colored with form liners to give the appearance of limestone. This material choice allowed for installing recessed, submersible LED lighting (Prisma Architectural Lighting), which can been seen from the south side of Interstate I-86. During seasonal flooding, the LEDs can be seen aglow underwater. Within Draper Park pedestrian linkages are made to Front Street via a stone-textured concrete walk to resemble those still prevalent in the village. Much effort was made to retain the pastoral character of Draper Park and its many amenities. The access closest to the Court Street Bridge showcases an information kiosk depicting area attractions. Interpretive signage along the trail explains the valley's natural resources and historical connections to the river. The park walkway connects to a native bluestone staircase that descends the slope to give direct access to the Riverwalk. An alternate route parallels the well-planted embankment until it abuts an ADAcompliant boardwalk-textured concrete path that also allows service access. An attractive overlook along the upper path offers superior views to the river valley and bridge. The overlook is a favorite spot for wedding and prom photos. 52 Landscape Architect and Specifier News The trail stretches about a quarter mile from Draper Park to Ahwaga Park beneath the bridge, and along the backside of the historic buildings known as Riverow. The trail, slightly wider than the original riverbank, closely follows the existing grade, allowing a 10-ft. wide paved path surface and generous vegetated space on either side. The Riverwalk passes below existing decks and heavy timber supports, while maintaining an eight-foot minimum overhead clearance. Observed in the character of the stone basement façades are the original steel of the canal boat moorings, stone foundations etched from spring ice flows of years past, flood level debris still visible on the brick and suspended brackets once used to support loading docks, testimony to the once thriving river commerce. All features were preserved. The trail continues to a fishing/seating area located opposite the vacant "Gateway Space." Here direct