Kohlmann Park River Walk & Shades of Rhythm Amphitheater
Waverly, Iowa
Photography by Howard Doughty
Kohlmann Park River Walk
Construction Completed: 2002
Contractor: Matt Construction, Inc.
Neglected for years and overtaken by geese, we approached the project and encouraged a solution that would connect the bike trail north and the downtown loop. This trail would encourage increased traffic and discourage geese. Goose feeding was prohibited. A bathroom was installed. Trail lights, fences, shelters were installed at regular intervals. We designed lights to hold flower baskets and irrigation is delivered through the insides of the poles. New activities have been programmed including an annual art walk.
Photography by Howard Doughty
Kohlmann Park River Walk
Construction Completed: 2002
Contractor: Matt Construction, Inc.
Neglected for years and overtaken by geese, we approached the project and encouraged a solution that would connect the bike trail north and the downtown loop. This trail would encourage increased traffic and discourage geese. Goose feeding was prohibited. A bathroom was installed. Trail lights, fences, shelters were installed at regular intervals. We designed lights to hold flower baskets and irrigation is delivered through the insides of the poles. New activities have been programmed including an annual art walk.
Shades of Rhythm Amphitheater
Construction Completed: Spring of 2014
The Shades of Rhythm Amphitheater was later added to the Park, adding to the beauty of the Park as well as providing a forum for new activities. City band concerts and weddings are now taking place at the newly installed Amphitheater.
Construction Completed: Spring of 2014
The Shades of Rhythm Amphitheater was later added to the Park, adding to the beauty of the Park as well as providing a forum for new activities. City band concerts and weddings are now taking place at the newly installed Amphitheater.
Most interesting and unique element of the projects:
The most interesting element in the park is the Amphitheater/Sculpture - designed by Iowa State Architecture students Ann Cashman and Darian Lue. Placement of the sculpture met with considerable resistance but ultimately the support of the local municipal band won out. The new location was considerably more desirable for concerts than the previous location just off the main road and at the courthouse. As Project Architect for the construction document and construction administrative phases, Larry Kurtz added sound amplification system, color changing lights, and patio/stage areas to the project, integrating them into the original walkway layout and design. Lighting was added to create year round highlight to the sculpture.
What is the Architect's favorite aspect about the project?
The Park has proven to be quite durable, well-traveled and used. Bathrooms and shelters survived the 2008 eight foot flood waters. The increased bicycle and pedestrian traffic has brought new life to the Park. The community has responded by planning events like the Art Walk and Santa's House has returned as a seasonal event. It is gratifying to see that the Park has evolved over the years to be well used and well loved.
For more pictures of Kohlman Park and how it enhances the community, go to their Facebook page.
The most interesting element in the park is the Amphitheater/Sculpture - designed by Iowa State Architecture students Ann Cashman and Darian Lue. Placement of the sculpture met with considerable resistance but ultimately the support of the local municipal band won out. The new location was considerably more desirable for concerts than the previous location just off the main road and at the courthouse. As Project Architect for the construction document and construction administrative phases, Larry Kurtz added sound amplification system, color changing lights, and patio/stage areas to the project, integrating them into the original walkway layout and design. Lighting was added to create year round highlight to the sculpture.
What is the Architect's favorite aspect about the project?
The Park has proven to be quite durable, well-traveled and used. Bathrooms and shelters survived the 2008 eight foot flood waters. The increased bicycle and pedestrian traffic has brought new life to the Park. The community has responded by planning events like the Art Walk and Santa's House has returned as a seasonal event. It is gratifying to see that the Park has evolved over the years to be well used and well loved.
For more pictures of Kohlman Park and how it enhances the community, go to their Facebook page.