HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH? Located on the northern edges of Atlanta, the Buckhead Community Improvement District (BCID) sought to identify available space for a world- class park. Finding that much of the district is developed and high property values prohibit acquisition of a large parcel for a park, the BCID also recogniz ed that the sunken freeway, GA400, is a barrier, dividing the district. Charged with reconnecting the community through public space that bridges the freeway, the design team sought to address challenges of access, topography, and legal barriers by questioning accepted notions of a “cap park.” MENDING A GASH + MAKING NEW CONNECTIONS – The concept, HUB 404, uses existing easements to strategically link across GA400 while keeping areas open to obviate the need for added ventilation, lighting, and life safety systems for transportation infrastructure below. Activated pedestrian paths are designed to encourage foot traffic into and through the park throughout the day. The park also becomes an integral part of PATH400, a regional recreational and commuter bike path that will tie into the park. CREATING THE HEART OF THE DISTRICT – While the park offers neighborhood links and reinforces regional transportation systems, it also creates a place for gathering in the heart of the district. Envisioned as a place for events, informal recreation, and a simple lunch outdoors, the park is designed to flexibly support the vibrant life of the city. Three distinct programming z ones, The Commons, Plaz a, and Gardens, accommodate a range of programs and events. RECONNECTING CANOPY + RECLAIMING WATER – Atlanta is recogniz ed for its urban tree canopy, yet, substantial gaps exist at areas of intense development. HUB 404 recogniz es and capitaliz es on an opportunity to occupy the gap created by the freeway with a dense cover of native trees that link adjacent canopies and establish a wildlife corridor creating desirable edge condition habitats for birds and insects. Particularly adapted to the climate, planting areas are modelled on Georgia Piedmont plant communities and strategically located to maximiz e stormwater capture. The park’s structural depth affords opportunities for cisterns to detain runoff and water treatment hubs to treat water for irrigation and building needs. RETHINKING URBAN ISSUES – While increasing infrastructural capacity has been a preferred solution by many urban communities to addressing concerns about traffic and parking, HUB 404 proposes alternative solutions. Offering attractive public spaces, accessible activities, and strategically timed programming, the park becomes a destination, reducing travel outside of the district and peak hour congestion through delayed departures. From mass transit, to bike trails, to pedestrian connections, the park encourages alternative transit options through enhanced access, safety, and comfort. A WORLD- CLASS PARK FOR EVERYONE – Atlanta communities are underserved by parks. Envisioned as an agent of social change, the park is a destination with access to light rail, further opening a premier park to the city. For both Atlanta residents that rely on MARTA and those who choose to ride, the park is an amenity to all.
