What Will the Future Bicentennial Park (or Civic Center Park) Look Like?
In all likelihood, one of the concepts shown below will become the future Bicentennial Park (or maybe as the originally named “Civic Center Park”). The long reflecting pool was clearly favored by architect Rand Elliott, but some members of the committee tasked with reviewing the Project 180 improvement voiced concerns about whether these water features would duplicate fountains being added at the Myriad Gardens. City staff, meanwhile, pointed out that each fountain requires money for maintenance and operation. The biggest issue, however, might be the budget, which doesn’t provide enough money for the reflecting pool. Private funds could be raised, however …
So the committee wants to know … what do you think?
A variation of the long reflecting pool concept.
Another view of the fountaiin at the west edge of the park.
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Comments
It is a great design but it will fall flat and there will be no improvement as long as they can’t get more infill around it. Surrounding a park like this with surface parking just goes against the whole idea of trying to create a defined space with a strong presence.
The fountains seem integral. If there is not money for fountains then the entire park scheme needs to be scrapped and they need to find another focal point.
It strikes me as pretty but quite sterile and not a people place.
As well, it does not appear that the previously approved Compass Rose 30-foot diameter sculpture funded by a $350,000 grant from the Inasmuch Foundation would have a place in this design. It was approved by city council on March 30, 2010. What would become of it?
I think the street people will absolutely LOVE all the new sleeping options. (I didn’t notice any towel racks!)
The street-people will LOVE all the new sleeping options. (I did’t notice any towel racks next to the bathing area…)
I do like the Elliot design for the Civic Center site and reflecting pool. The deco influences are dramatic.
However, I believe that the historic fountain in front of City Hall (east side) should be restored or renovated. The original fountain provided a spectacular focal point.
Three rings of jets shot water upward
A granite edifice that still exists flowed water over steps onto two semi circular glass “shelves.”
The pool area incorporated hidden neon lighting in a alcove around the perimeter of the pool. While very dangerous by today’s electrical standards, it made for a impressive effect. Such lighting could safely be done using LED’s.
The Centennial Commission had me do an evaluation of the existing fountain as it was considered a potential restoration project. I vaguely remember a time capsule somehow being incorporated commemorating the land run.
If your readers desire it, I can forward historical photographs and our report for the centennial.
“The long reflecting pool was clearly favored by architect Rand Elliott, but some members of the committee tasked with reviewing the Project 180 improvement voiced concerns about whether these water features would duplicate fountains being added at the Myriad Gardens.”
Ummm…and isn’t quite a bit of what’s in the Myriad Gardens going to be duplicated by the new Central Park? Really, folks, how many amphitheaters do we really need downtown?!
It seems that the overall concept, and spirit of place is generally agreed upon to be very good. With that being said, I think there are a couple of design flaws which should be addressed to improve the overall plan. Chief amongst these is the orientation of the benches.
The consultants have been tasked with creating a Civic Center. The very definition of which would imply an inward focus. As the design stands, the benches force park users to look outward, towards parked cars and empty lots. I would argue there is no need for a reflecting pool if you are prevented from casting your gaze upon it.
Further, assessing the success of this design based upon a few SketchUP renderings is insufficient. Where is the materiality? What is the nature of the plantings? We need more of the parts in order to better judge the whole.
I agree with what Doug Loudenback asked:
“… does not appear that the previously approved Compass Rose 30-foot diameter sculpture funded by a $350,000 grant from the Inasmuch Foundation would have a place in this design. It was approved by city council on March 30, 2010. What would become of it?”
Any chance of the powers that be passing on an answer?
What is going to happen to all the wonderful statues that are in Bicentennial Park? They are all important to Oklahoma’s history. I would be sad for them to be discarded. Does anyone know the answer to this?
In a previous blog or Oklahoman story, I think Steve mentioned they were being relocated … Steve, please correct if in error
I could do without the reflecting pool, as long as they keep the circular fountain in front of the Civic Center and the one in front of City Hall.
I come from the school of thought that parks should be grand and make a statement. I think the water features could pull that off but honestly, I would rather see some really cool statues or perhaps an obelisk. Objects like that attract the photo-ops and have less maintenance than a large reflection pond.
I do like water features though and if they really want to keep a feature, I suggest a large sculpted fountain. (like the 4th image but perhaps a more traditional)