Best Project Landscape/Urban Development, Project of the Year Finalist: Kathryn Albertson Park

Abstract

In 2019, the city's parks and recreation department embarked on a $4.7-million restoration project supported by a $2.5-million donation by the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation. The design-build effort updated the 41-acre park and restored natural wetlands and wildlife habitats while adding modern amenities. The design for the modernization needed to incorporate the natural and rustic materials that were part of the original park to maintain the original aesthetic Joe Albertson envisioned. The project team worked with the city, the foundation and others to identify project needs and address design elements that potentially might conflict with the natural look of the park. Photo courtesy McMillen Jacobs AssociatesExisting park structures were integrated into the design to create a space that is fresh yet familiar. The park is a popular attraction in the heart of Boise, so the city and the foundation both wanted to ensure it stayed open during construction. The team trained its field staff to help circumvent park traffic and erected construction signage to redirect pedestrians.