Patricia T. Russell Park and Stormwater Improvement Project, Keene, NH

The project focused on expanding active and passive recreation activities and amenities within the park, developing a signature recreation facility for all abilities, and improving access and circulation. This was also a water resources project, since major stormwater management and water quality deficiencies in the area needed to be addressed as part of this project.

SLR served as the lead consultant for the project, responsible for evaluation, engineering and design, and landscape architecture,  associated the installation of new utilities (drainage, sanitary sewer, and water) within Carpenter Street and Church Street; a new storm drainage line through the park; creation of a headwall and stormwater quality basin; a 400-foot-by 220 foot athletic field for rugby and lacrosse; picnic and gathering areas; granite curbing and bituminous concrete to create parallel parking spaces along Carpenter Street and a new parking lot; two playground areas; concrete and asphalt walkways; solar site lighting; fencing, stone dust bleacher pads, utility improvements, landscaping, rain gardens, site furnishings and a restroom building. Improvements to Beaver Brook include bank stabilization, boulder revetment installation and plantings.  There were many components of this project that required consideration of unique or innovative design applications to meet the project goals of nature-based, sustainable and resilient solutions.  The following subconsultants were on the team:

• Doucet Survey: site survey;
• Earthscape: conceptual design of playground facilities; and
• Basswood Environmental: environmental assessment and assistance.