In 2020, with outdoor spaces mattering more than ever due to the pandemic, we were asked by the Forest Heights Neighborhood Association to develop a long-term vision plan for their pocket park, which is mainly used for community gatherings and individual health but which also promotes and supports Forest Heights as a National Wildlife Federation’s Community Wildlife Habitat. For this endeavor Patrick Brown, ASLA with Ross / Fowler Landscape Architecture, became our volunteer.

After getting input from the neighborhood, a concept plan was created to make the park more functional and aesthetically pleasing while maintaining the existing swings, benches, picnic tables, and trees. A 3’-0” wide paver path will be added from the street to the refurbished asphalt trail to improve park access. Removable bollards will be added to allow city maintenance vehicles to enter the park but eliminate unwanted traffic. To help alleviate current stormwater issues, rain gardens with stepping stones will be added at the north and southwest sections of the park and a stormwater drain will be centrally located. Invasive plants at the existing creek bank are to be removed and regrading will allow water to flow back to the creek. A metal fence with pickets and a gate are proposed to allow creek access while providing protection from small children gaining access.

The existing park swings will be upgraded and new equipment, including an ADA accessible swing, spinners, and adult fitness areas, are included. The existing wooden fence on Sutherland Avenue will get repairs and is proposed to get a mural and new landscaping. Lastly, a new neighbor sign and location was requested and included as part of the overall plan.