Copley Wolff’s design includes a monumental staircase, interactive water feature, green spaces, and a potential elevator or funicular.
Springfield, MA – Copley Wolff Design Group was recently contracted to redesign and upgrade Pynchon Park, located between Dwight and Chestnut streets in downtown Springfield. The firm will execute the resurrection of the park and oversee the design, construction, permitting, and testing after several years of limited use and disrepair since its opening in 1976.
Copley Wolff is further evolving Pynchon Park with the redesign of existing open space for recreational activities, with special attention to improved pedestrian access, installation of an interactive water feature, a monumental staircase, infrastructure updates, multifaceted green spaces and gathering areas, upgraded utility connections, and lush landscaping.
The design will also feature an integral architectural element such as a funicular or an elevator to help visitors surmount the 40-foot change in elevation from the park’s downtown location up to the Quadrangle, the cluster of museums and numerous cultural institutions in Springfield’s Metro Center. The design and engineering of the park entrances and other attractions will meet current Massachusetts and ADA compliance regulations.
The dramatic park redesign will facilitate foot traffic between downtown Springfield’s Court Square and the Quadrangle by shortening the distance between the two public spaces and making the walk more pleasurable for pedestrians. Copley Wolff and the city of Springfield have begun devising designs for the renovation.
—
The landscape architecture firm leverages its in-depth design expertise and extensive portfolio of park projects, including the Baxter Riverfront Park, St. James Avenue Garden and the Wharf District Parks on the Rose Kennedy Greenway.
Copley Wolff’s rendering of Pynchon Park
“Copley Wolff is committed to providing the community of Springfield with a newly renovated park to enjoy,” commented Chris Scheufler, Project Manager and Senior Landscape Designer at Copley Wolff Design Group. “The park’s rich history makes this an exciting and unique project for our team. We will ensure the park is truly accessible for all visitors and give the Springfield community a safe and welcoming outdoor space to congregate.”
“The redesign of Pynchon Park is a key gateway project that will not only reinvigorate, but enhance the experiences of thousands of Springfield residents and visitors as they matriculate to and from our Dr. Seuss Museum to Springfield’s downtown attractions and amenities,” added Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno.
“I look forward to witnessing the implementation of Copley Wolff’s inviting and creative design concepts.”
