Gainesville Eco-History Trail National Design Competition

University of Florida Center for Construction and Environment

WMA was one of only five teams formally invited to participate in this competition to create an eco-history trail through central Gainesville, Florida. WMA generated a design that celebrates the native ecosystem, enhances water quality and integrates the community into the entire process. The design reintroduces the endemic long-leaf pine ecosystem and incorporates on-site storm water collection, treatment and infiltration along the length of the trail. Thematic site elements were inspired by the nearby historic railroad. The design referenced the railroad by embedding symbolic railroad ties' (1.5' by 10' strips of alternative pavement patterns) into the trail. These ties would intercept the traveler's forward motion along the trail and invite entry into the adjacent landscape, where neighborhood landmarks, story telling kiosks, interpretive displays, or links to parks and other public places could be discovered.