Erin Schneider Rail Park Field Trip - Optional Extra Credit Assignment 1. Visit Timing and Transportation: I decided to check out the Rail Park one evening after sunset. Taking the train was the easiest way for me, and I entered the park right off Noble Street. 2. Experience in the Park: Visiting the park at night was a unique experience. The city lights created a beautiful backdrop, giving the park a serene and almost mystical feel. The first thing I noticed was the blend of the park's modern design with the historic character of the elevated rail line. The lighting was subtle and enhanced the architectural features without overshadowing the park's natural aspects. As I walked through, the blend of industrial materials like steel and wood caught my eye, which were cleverly used to create seating areas and walkways. Though less noticeable at night, the plant life added a natural touch to the urban setting. The photos I took capture the scenes of the park under the night sky, with the city's lights in the background. It was a truly memorable view! 3. Initial Reaction to the Design: I was right off the bat really impressed with the design of the park. It does a fantastic job of integrating the old railway elements with modern needs. I particularly liked the clever use of lighting and the choice of materials that nod to the park's history. One aspect that stood out was the balance between open spaces and more intimate areas. The balance between these spaces was well-executed, providing peaceful spots in a city environment. However, I felt that some parts of the park could benefit from more interactive elements like more art installations or interactive displays that talk more about the site's history. 4. Impact on Connectivity and Surrounding Neighborhoods: Based on the park’s long-term plans, I see it playing a major role in connecting different neighborhoods in the city. It's more than just a green space. It's a link between communities that could change how residents and visitors navigate and interact with the city. For the surrounding neighborhoods, I see the park being a positive force for community engagement and economic development. It could attract new businesses and provide a communal space for residents. This has the potential to bring communities together and the park's design and historical significance could even make it a new city landmark. This could attract both tourists and locals, in turn, boosting the economy and culture of these areas.
