University of Pennsylvania's board of trustees this week gave the go-ahead for
Shoemaker Green, the sustainable landscape project
unveiled in May that will connect the Palestra and Franklin Field. After being chosen in May as one of more than 150 pilot projects to test
a new LEED-based ratings system for landscape design, Shoemaker Green's design plan, created by local architects
Andropogon Associates, received a budget of $8 million to complete the park, which officials hope will provide a more pleasing pathway between the Penn campus and the new Penn Park at S. 31st Street.
"The design of Shoemaker Green continues
Penn's open space tradition," says Penn's VP of Facilities and Real
Estate Services Anne Papageorge. "By linking College Green via Smith
Walk to Penn
Park, Shoemaker Green incorporates numerous sustainable features,
providing a passive
recreational landscape surrounded by the iconic historic buildings of
the
Palestra and Franklin Field."
Shoemaker Green hopes to address serious stormwater runoff issues present on the underutilized former greyfield parcel at 33rd Street. By adding three rain gardens, porous pavers, a cistern for rainwater reuse and tree trenches, architects and Penn officials hope to absorb some of the rainwater known to flood local buildings. The land will also be used to test innovative new storm water management technologies.
The open center of the project is adaptable to a variety of special events, like commencement and the Penn Relays. The lawn can accommodate large groups as well as those looking for a secluded area to hold an outdoor class or have a quiet lunch.
Source: University of Pennsylvania
Writer: John Steele