CPJ TAKES HOME MARYLAND-NATIONAL BIA AWARD IN THE CATEGORY OF "PARTNERSHIP WITH A CIVIL OR ENVIRONMENTAL ORGANIZATION" for its college park gardens project.
10/29/2010
The City of Rockville tasked CPJ with rejuvenating an aging community park in concert with providing stormwater management to the surrounding 158 acre, 42 percent impervious catchment area in an effort to protect the downstream receiving water, known as the College Gardens Tributary to Watts Branch. Through the combined efforts of CPJ, Slater Associates Inc., McKim & Creed, and The City of Rockville Department of Public Works, the team met the project goals to provide stormwater quality improvement and downstream flood relief; reduce bank erosion along the outlying tributary; protect and enhance existing natural resources; and improve park use and aesthetics through the implementation of a large onsite pond retrofit. Park amenities include multiple sports fields and courts, a gazebo, grills, picnic benches and bicycle racks. The prominent storm water pond in the center of the park is the main attraction, enhanced with paths, a walking bridge, multiple lookouts and benches. CPJ tagged, surveyed, and cataloged 574 trees, the vast majority of which remain undisturbed. In addition the landscape plan incorporates more than 120 native tree species, 167 shrubs, 1,600 perennials, 2,600 wetland plugs, and 10,000 sq. ft. of wetland and wildflower seeding mix. College Gardens Park is a prime example of how the utility and amenity of a project can come together to minimize the impact of stormwater management and at the same time create a beautiful park that enhances the quality of life for a community.
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