Charles City Riverfront
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Charles City Riverfront Charles City, Iowa Construction completed in 2013 Awards: E.P.A. Plaza's Parks & Public Spaces Project Description:
The project began as a single bank riverfront park remodel following the floods of 2008 and turned into a citywide re-imaging project. Multiple concepts were presented that broadened the scope of the project to include both banks and the river itself. A variety of interest groups worked together for a common goal and the result was Iowa's first white water park! The project includes new boat ramp, natural play area, musical performance stone amphitheater, storm water fountain, porous paved Labyrinth, handicapped boat ramp, fishing areas and take-out sites for kayakers and tubers. Most interesting or unique element of this project: Tubers ("kids" of all ages) band together in groups or float individually to create what I liken to a summer sled run. What is the Architect's favorite aspect about the project? As anticipated, most users dot the shoreline, watching the water sports and strolling through various play areas. We feel we have achieved our goal of connection people to their river again by providing clean, safe riverside access. |
STORM WATER FOUNTAIN
Turning curbs inside out and drain pipes up side down. This fountain sets rainwater free and back on a slower path to the sea. But, it does not run on motors or pumps it can only be started from above then with a mild summer rain you will see it run You may not see it today but I'll bet you can remember when you played in the rain when you knew the smell of water and worms when you floated toy ships or made mud pies. I hope you saw the rainbow then and I hope You will come back again and see me when it rains and I'll take you back to a time before you had enough sense to come in out of the rain and see life fresh once more before it's.... well? you know. LARRY R. KURTZ 
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