The new Phoenix Civic Space Park in downtown Phoenix opened recently, and is already a huge success as a gathering and events space in the city center. The park features an interactive water feature and an illuminated water wall from Crystal Fountains, and a massive illuminated sculpture (100 feet tall and 100 feet wide).
The interactive water feature – already a huge success – incorporates a new design element for this type of feature: LED light pavers are interspersed throughout the “deck” to create additional visual excitement alongside the choreographed water jets. The light pavers are also programmed to operate in unison with the integrated LED Choreoswitch lights. The number of color changes fascinates everyone who interacts or stands and watches the water feature.
Adjacent to the interactive water splash deck is an illuminated water wall. The water wall was designed as a simple and unique architectural effect, with the water running down both sides of a stainless steel woven mesh, uplit from within tumbled blue recycled glass for additional interest.
The Civic Space Park is bordered by Taylor Street, Polk Street, First Avenue, and Central Avenue. It forms the “bridge” between the ASU and surrounding communities, accommodating a variety of uses, events, and daily functions of the university. The park has created a much-needed resting spot that Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon, at the opening, called “a rebirth of the entire area – certainly the best park in the whole state.” With a turfed area of 39,000 square feet in 2.77 acres, the park also features shade structures, and trees expected to shade 70 percent of the park upon maturity.
The park, developed as a partnership between community members, the city of Phoenix, and Arizona State University, utilizes sustainable design techniques to generate power, keep the area cool, and capture rainwater.