Burgess & Niple (B&N) completed the Astor Park Development project, which successfully transformed a 21-acre area along the Olentangy River into a vibrant recreational space for the Columbus community. This park now offers a variety of amenities that enhance the riverfront experience, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
Among the key park features is the newly reconstructed kayak and canoe boat ramp, which provides easy access to the river for water enthusiasts. The park also includes an artistically enhanced boat storage locker, encouraging outdoor activities and making it simple for people to enjoy paddling on the Olentangy River. These amenities have significantly increased opportunities for recreation in downtown Columbus. The park also boasts beautiful green spaces and well-designed pathways that invite visitors to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings. It has become a gathering place where community members can relax, exercise and connect with nature.
Astor Park serves as a recreational hub while complementing the adjacent Arena District Connector Bridge, also designed by B&N. This pedestrian and bicycle bridge connects the Olentangy Trail to the Arena District, downtown Columbus and the new Confluence Village development. The integration of the park with the bridge landing has created a seamless transition between these areas, enhancing connectivity and enriching the overall user experience for everyone in the community.
Park Electrification Design
A significant portion of B&N's work focused on the electrical aspects of the park. The design consisted of lighting and power systems for the entire park, which included relocating utility lines and developing plans for lighting layout, fixture types and mounting locations throughout the park, including the trail, kayak kiosk and sign at the West Bank trailhead. B&N prepared photometric calculations for the conceptual lighting designed by teaming partner POD Design and recommended proper fixture spacing. B&N created detailed plans for the park's lighting system and controls. The design also included a new electrical service for the park lighting, as well as power for the kayak kiosk and miscellaneous electrical outlets in the park for special events.
Site Design
In addition to the electrical work, B&N's scope included site clearance planning, tree inventory, hydraulic and scour analysis, stormwater management design for both quality and quantity control, permitting and coordination with various city departments. Final design drawings developed for the park's construction, including site, grading and utility plans along with various details for park features such as the walks, rain garden, benches and water service.