SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
In a strategic move aimed at enhancing public spaces, the city of Huntsville has enlisted the expertise of an architectural firm for the eastern expansion of Big Spring Park following the impending demolition of the current city hall.
During Thursday’s City Council session, a decisive nod was given to a $270,000 contract with Bostick Landscape Architects to spearhead the design implementation for the park’s extension. The agreement sets a firm deadline for design completion by September 14.
Mayor Tommy Battle emphasized the significance of this contract as a pivotal step towards materializing the envisioned design. He expressed, “As our downtown flourishes, the demand for recreational areas amplifies. This property offers a golden opportunity to augment Big Spring Park, cementing its status as a beloved city landmark. By broadening its expanse, we ensure a more expansive public domain for all to relish.”
City Administrator John Hamilton highlighted Bostick’s familiarity with Huntsville’s park projects, citing their prior conceptual work on its envisioned layout. Hamilton elaborated, “The discussions surrounding the fate of this property post-city hall demolition have been ongoing. We now have the chance to introduce some truly distinctive features to the park.”
Anticipated components of the design entail two to three terrace plaza levels, a pavilion, enhanced sidewalk connections to Church Street, upgraded landscaping, lighting, and electrical infrastructure. Emphasis will be placed on preserving the existing greenspace adjacent to the Administration Building.
Hamilton stressed the significance of synchronizing efforts between Bostick Landscape Architects and Fuqua & Partners Architects, who were tasked with the demolition design of the outgoing city hall. He clarified, “While unconventional, designing demolition is essential given the complexity of the building’s infrastructure. It’s crucial to ensure a safe and efficient process.” Owing to the building’s vintage from the 1960s, the demolition, scheduled for next year, will be conducted incrementally rather than through a single implosion. The transition to the new city hall on Fountain Circle adjacent to the current structure is slated to commence next month, with completion expected by summer
