Hartford, CT

Master Plan for a resilient, pedestrian-friendly multi-phase waterfront park system, including design standards for cohesive park development along the Connecticut River.

Since 1985, Richter & Cegan has been actively involved in the Hartford Riverwalk Project, contributing to the master planning, design, permitting, and construction of multiple phases of the waterfront park system along the Connecticut River. The Hartford Riverwalk reconnects local communities to the river through a continuous, accessible, multi-use path that extends from Riverside Park south to Charter Oak Landing.

Setting the framework and guiding design principals for the linear park system, the Master Plan addresses the complex nature of the site, narrow site constraints, anticipated regulatory requirements, and seasonal flooding of the Connecticut River. The narrow, linear site required creative design and engineering solutions such as a Walkabout under the Bulkeley Bridge and typical notched walkway dike sections. The Master Plan also accommodates the limited development and maintenance funding for the park system.

Design standards were developed to provide park-wide continuity including site lighting, furnishings and other overall park features. Details and the design of the park spaces are all developed to withstand periodic flooding and minimize hydraulic impacts while focusing on pedestrian friendly spaces. Site lighting standards reflect local historical architecture. Rest areas are designed to provide pedestrian safety areas from passing emergency vehicles and spaces for users to view the dynamic Connecticut River. Larger overlooks provide spaces for special events for the various park programs. In anticipation of seasonal floods, removable railing details were developed to avoid catching debris and impeding river flow. Retaining wall and planter details reflect the stone masonry of the Bulkeley Bridge, the largest stone arch bridge in Connecticut.

Following the master planning process, Richter & Cegan has continued to be involved in the Hartford Riverwalk park system by leading multi-phase development projects identified in the Master Plan.