Parker-Haun Park
The project entailed master planning services for a new park spanning more than six acres and positioned as a key feature at the intersection of Greensboro Avenue and Jack Warner Parkway in Tuscaloosa. Designed to be a vibrant public space, the park includes abundant green areas, river-viewing points, and a central plaza for community events while complementing the interactive STEAM-based programming of the forthcoming Saban Center.
CHALLENGE
The TTL team's role as project leader for the new park included comprehensive management of all subconsultants and architects. A primary challenge arose from the park's location atop an old ["Municipal"] landfill, necessitating a delicate balance between not disturbing the landfill content excessively while verifying sufficient fill for foundations. The project design incorporated concrete structures, such as stages and riverside tiered seating, that demanded substantial support due to their weight while incorporating beautification elements.
SOLUTION
Given that the underlying landfill material was insufficient to support the park's heavy concrete components, TTL's geotechnical team devised an innovative alternative to the traditional method of installing hundreds of piles. They recommended a ground stabilization approach using layers of geotechnical fabric and stone to create a stable subgrade. Additionally, the project included aesthetic enhancements to the surrounding area, such as the installation of LED lighting throughout the park – now a highlight for the riverfront redevelopment – and under the nearby state highway bridge crossing the Black Warrior River.