Project Title:  Phoenix Civic Space Park
Location:  Phoenix, AZ
Built, Unbuilt or Under Construction: Built
Project Year: 2009
Firm: AECOM
Firm Website: www.aecom.com

Project Description: Not known for its public spaces, Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.A. is often derided as an example of American suburban sprawl. But a new example of successful urbanism emerged from this desert cityscape with the 2009 opening of Civic Space Park. This new park sits on a 2.7-acre site in downtown Phoenix, offering residents and visitors a new kind of urban typology, bringing together smart urban design, green space, multiple shade structures, an interactive LED lighting show, public art—and a model of low-carbon design.

The landscape’s design and porous concrete paving provide for stormwater collection and filtration, facillitating groundwater recharge. Solar panels on the park’s shade structures generate 75 kilowatts of energy, enough to power 8-9 residential homes and offset the park’s lighting and electrical needs. When its trees and vegetation reach maturity, more than seventy percent of the park will be shaded from the desert sun. To take advantage of the Arizona sunshine and mild climate in the winter months, most of these trees are deciduous.

The Civic Space Park plays an important role in the surrounding urban systems. The adjacent, historic 424 Central Building has been refurbished as a public meeting and exhibition space to draw events and people to the area. Designed to include a sunken café and retail space on a lower patio, frontages along the open space will act as a magnet for activity. Downtown Central Station on Phoenix’ METRO Light Rail faces the park, providing direct transit linkages between Civic Space Park and the greater city.

Image Credits: AECOM Design and Planning