Background
Having identified technical storm water detention needs in the Second Street area, the city of Champaign and Foth recognized the opportunity to marry technical solutions with the quality of life enhancements of a water/recreation path. The solution would create positive traffic flow through a formerly blighted area of the community.
Approach
Foth was the lead consultant for program planning, as well as schematic and final design services. The scope of work included the update of the hydraulic/hydrologic model, as well as preparation of schematic design plans, final construction documents, permitting and construction observation. Foth collaborated with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Historic Preservation, Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the local sanitary district. Additional agency coordination included the Sierra Club and Prairie Rivers Network.
Results
We successfully created storm water detention in a mixed-use urban environment. These improvements provide recreational amenities connecting the University of Illinois campus, a public park, residential and commercial districts, and an enlivened downtown retail and dining area. As an additional testament to its success, the project won the 2011 Champaign County Design & Conservation Foundation Award.