Overview
The City of Charlottesville wanted a new design for Forest Hills Park, a 7.4 acre park originally designed in the 1950’s; to be a prototype for improvements to all of the city’s parks. They asked Timmons Group to update the 2006 Master Plan and to revitalize the park. The new design improves streetscape and accessibility; adds a playground and splash pad; and establishes active and passive recreation areas. Improvements include an updated entrance, an open air pavilion, and an overlook from Forest Hills Avenue to improve connectivity between neighborhoods and the park. Universal accessibility throughout the park assures that all visitors are able to enjoy all park amenities. Crime and Prevention Through Environmental Design principles for safety via increased visibility by local police are also incorporated. The project enhances views and daylight a stream as part of a city-wide program. The redesign worked around and protected existing mature shade trees, some of which are over 150 years old, and added the next generation of trees and understory.
