The Wightman Park project is an excellent example of integrated stormwater management and recreation. The neighborhood topography and location of the park at the lowest point in the area required extensive storm water management solutions to capture the runoff of the surrounding 30 acres while providing an opportunity to improve a rundown neighborhood green space.
This 2 acre park brings storm water runoff down off the street over a rock cascade that park visitors can walk across as the water enters a rain garden full of native plants before flowing into underground retention systems hidden beneath the playground and ballfield. Other site features include a pavilion and elevated deck walkway over the rain garden, half basketball court, full sized baseball diamond, and walking track around the perimeter of the park.
Eisler faced logistical challenges of building on a feature dense site in a busy neighborhood while working with two major clients, City of Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority.
Photo Credit and Project Landscape Architect: Pashek + MTR
