Transformed Abandoned Shoreline: Bushwick Inlet Park's Vibrant Recreational Oasis

Bushwick Inlet Park, a remarkable project designed by Starr Whitehouse Landscape Architects and Planners architectural studio, has successfully transformed the abandoned East River shore of Brooklyn into a vibrant recreational and natural space. The first phase of the park introduces a sequence of beautifully designed areas connected by a spacious promenade that extends towards the water's edge. The park not only offers a stunning landscape but also maximizes public utilization of the land, with a new field house on Kent Avenue that combines park maintenance facilities and separate community spaces.

One of the park's most striking features is the fully-accessible green roof of the field house, which slopes dramatically towards the west, creating a playground, terraced lawns, and breathtaking views of the park, the river, and the iconic Manhattan skyline. Sustainability lies at the core of the design, with the implementation of various eco-friendly systems. In-ground heating loops, photovoltaic electricity, and irrigation using collected site water all contribute to minimizing the park's environmental impact.

Furthermore, the park boasts a multi-purpose sports field that supports year-round community recreation. Beneath the field, a stormwater storage system has been incorporated, ensuring efficient water management during heavy rainfall. As visitors approach the waterfront, they are greeted by a charming grass knoll that echoes the slope of the field house. Additionally, a terrace with permeable pavement provides a shaded area for visitors to enjoy the scenic views of the shore.

The waterfront area of Bushwick Inlet Park is carefully designed to support marine and avian life. With the inclusion of an off-shore island, a varied rocky edge, and marsh plantings, the park becomes a thriving habitat for diverse species. Native upland plantings and a freshwater pool, which filters stormwater collected from the site, serve as a source of shelter, food, and hydration for migrating birds.

In summary, Bushwick Inlet Park exemplifies the successful reclamation of an abandoned shoreline in Brooklyn. The collaboration between Starr Whitehouse Landscape Architects and Planners has resulted in a stunning recreational space that seamlessly integrates with nature. With its innovative sustainable systems, multi-purpose sports field, and vibrant waterfront, the park offers an inviting and enriching experience for both the local community and visitors alike.

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