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Project Description
Half Moon Park
Location:
Intersection of Holl Boulevard and Indiana Avenue, Liberty Lake.
Completion Date: July 2008
Purpose of the
Project and Context:
The global, never
ending cycle of evaporation, precipitation, infiltration and runoff
known as the hydrological cycle is a well-known natural phenomenon. The
Spokane River and aquifer are fundamental to the hydrologic cycle with
interchange between the two. Water is in constant motion throughout the
cycle, returning to the atmosphere as vapor, carried aloft to fall again
and again as snow or rain.
The site is embraces
the hydrologic cycle as stormwater is collected from walks and roads,
carried to landscape areas for removal of pollutants, returned to the
aquifer or aloft through transpiration by the plant materials.
Half-Moon Park is
designed to reveal, amplify and engage these forces through the design
of the park and integration of the stormwater collection, treatment and
infiltration. Listening Tubes provide auditory access to the sounds of
water rushing, trickling and dripping through the pipes in unexpected
areas of the park.
A gathering area is
located at the nexus of the 30” storm pipe path and the central walkway
of the park. This plaza extends to an overlook, drawing visitors to the
outlet of the 30” and other stormwater pipes. The stormwater flows into
rain gardens of native grasses before spilling into the grassy
amphitheater. Over the outlet is:
One Ear
Listening to the
River
Wet with Rain
Jane Reichhold
The landscaping
includes ornamental grasses that respond to the seasons with color and
texture, movement with the winds of spring and winter. Evergreen and
deciduous trees shape and define spaces for activities and contemplation
while their location reflects proximity to water and moisture.
The
project improves Spokane’s Quality of life and integrates many of the 15
qualities of Good Urban Design. Here are a few primary examples:
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Community Enhancement:
The community is enhanced by the iconic nature of the park
elements, creating a sense of place and spaces that facilitate
community events. |
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Human Needs:
The addition
of the accessible children’s water spray feature and picnic
shelter serve individual needs as well as community needs for
park facilities that are walkable. |
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Variety:
The
integration of stormwater, poetry, art and play has resulted in
a neighborhood park that is not only unique but has incredible
variety of textures, forms and experiences. |
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Environmental Sensitivity – Contextual Fit:
The design
of the park is contextual with the site in proximity to the
river and the relationship to the round-a-bout.
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Accessibility:
Removal of
the existing gravel pathways and installation of new accessible
concrete walkways significantly enhanced the accessibility of
every element in the park. These included swings, play
structure, spray area, restrooms and picnic shelter. |
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Place-Making:
The
neighborhood identity has become linked to park, the Five Cairns
installation in the round-a-bout and the sand and water play
area. The play area incorporates carved stone icons with water
bubbling. |
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Sustainability:
The park maintains natural drainage and aquifer recharge by
filtering stormwater. |
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