Students in the IDEXlab (Integrative Design Experience Laboratory), have been working on a sponsored studio project with the City of Elizabethton’s Parks and Recreation Board, to develop a conceptual master plan proposal for Elizabethton’s Historic Covered Bridge Park and Edward’s Island Park.
The students presented two unique master plan schemes providing options to initiate conversation and community feedback to the City of Elizabethton in December 2017. After the presentation, the students compiled an online visual preference survey, allowing community members a chance to participate in the design process and provide input on the proposed design ideas. The students received an overwhelming 350 responses that are guiding the final design.
This IDEXlab student cohort has had the great opportunity to work on this multifaceted project and has embraced the exploration and research it requires. The cohort has researched topics including the history of Elizabethton, site context and adjacencies, transportation and circulation, accessibility, usability, community tapestry, economy and development, historical zoning requirements, geology and ecology, floodplain requirements, and many other critical factors impacting the needs of such a complex project. Additionally, the students have participated in workshops providing the tools needed to complete the project. These workshops included:
- a renewable energy workshop with Professor Brent Summerville and Dr. Dennis Scanlin with the Sustainable Technology Program
- a planning and community input workshop with Dr. Rich Crepeau with the Department of Geography and Planning
- walking tours with Elizabethton representatives Mr. Chris Little with the Elizabethton IDEAS group and Mr. Robert Benfield with the Elizabethton Arts and Cultural Alliance
- a site analysis workshop with Professor and Architect Jason Miller, with the Building Science Program
- an architecture and park design workshop with STITCH Design Shop
Each of these workshops provided unique experiences with industry professionals and representatives, which provided the students with the foundation to develop a successful proposal.
Moving forward, this spring semester, the students will integrate the feedback provided by the city and the community into one final schematic master plan proposal for the city to use for their planning and implementation moving forward.
To follow what the IDEXlab cohort is up to on a weekly basis, check out our website at www.theidexlab.com or follow us on Instagram @theIDEXlab.
IDEX River Reactions City of Elizabethton
IDEX River Reactions City of Elizabethton