Tree Island Park and Preserve

About the Program

Category: Planning (Best in Category)

Year: 2021

Tree Island Park and Preserve is a 113-acre property that has two major components, including approximately 73 acres preserved and restored habitat area consisting of tree islands and marl prairie and approximately 40 acres of developed area to accommodate active and passive recreational facilities. Central to the planning program is the delineation of the site as both “park” and “preserve.” Due to its rich habitat and resource value and the mandated preservation of almost 64% of its area, the property will serve as an urban oasis for native flora and fauna. It will provide an opportunity for park patrons to observe these plants and animals - many of them rare or endangered species - and to see and appreciate the subtle beauty of this habitat which is their home. At the same time, it will provide a broad array of much-needed recreation - both active such as ballfields and game courts; and passive such as paths, trails, picnic shelters and informal open space. By carefully integrating active and passive recreational uses and protection of sensitive natural resources, the park’s planning and design serves as a model for other projects that face similar constraints and opportunities.