Bushnell Park
On the strength of the master plan and report prepared by QRP, the Bushnell Park Foundation succeeded in raising $7 million for the restoration of Hartford’s 35-acre central public park, created in 1858. Major projects detailed in the plan that have been completed include: the repair of Corning Fountain, the symbolic heart of Bushnell Park, which had not operated for nearly twenty-five years; a major reconstruction of the Pond, long plagued by leaks; installation of new lighting and irrigation systems; and the repair of three main entrances to the park.
A replanting project involved the planting of over 500 new trees, including the restoration of the park’s perimeter arcade of oaks and elms. A wide variety of new trees recreated the diversity, which makes the park an urban arboretum, and the plan included the establishment of a permanent maintenance endowment.
An outdoor performance facility for the park, designed in conjunction with architects Buttrick, White & Burtis has brought outdoor events to downtown Hartford.
Location
Hartford, CT
Client
City of Hartford
Role
Prime Consultant
