Trends Summer 2020 | Page 23

convert this space into an at-grade central plaza space as visitors come in and also as a vehicle access to the dock . area , and gravel plantings were used instead of soil that would have easily washed away .
With Harbor View being a working harbor , the site had to be able to accommodate the rare but possible docking of up to a 1,000-foot ship . This meant the canoe / kayak launch had to be removable and have a means to fence off the area for Homeland Security if such a ship docked .
Sustainability an important project element
It was also important that the plaza be sustainable and able to withstand the forces of nature for years to come , in times of flooding as well as dry periods . With all this in mind , the design team did extensive research into locally sourced , sustainable materials that could be used throughout the design . Regional stone was selected for the gridded plaza
“ So we have plants planted in gravel in our fountain . There ’ s no soil – they ’ re just growing in gravel ,” Morrow said .
Additionally , black locust – known to be a hard , strong wood – was used for all the wooden components constructed for the plaza , an actual sheet pile wall was used to create the donor sign , and , in keeping with the industrial harbor theme of the space , the play structure ’ s slide is made out of shipping containers .
“ It turned out well , and it functions well ,” Morrow said .
Members of the public are giving the project their stamp of approval as well .
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