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IN WILDNESS IS THE PRESERVATION OF THE WORLD.

-Henry David Thoreau

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RIVER PARK NARRATIVE

Spending time in nature has many documented benefits, some universal and others profoundly personal. As the worlds
population continues to expand at a rapid pace, the World Health Organization estimates that by 2017, the majority of
people on this planet will live in urban areas. Fewer and fewer people across the globe will live in rural settings and even
fewer will have unfettered access to the natural environment. For many people, an opportunity to experience the sublime
features of the natural world, such as river, forest, mountain, and meadow is already no longer a right but a luxury. And yet,
River Park, in the Upper Valley of New Hampshire, on the Connecticut River, provides an unparalleled opportunity to do just
that, to experience the awe-inspiring wildness of nature.
River Park enhances the experience of the sites natural elements using a series of small-scale, measured, physical
interventions, and innovative and expansive recreational programming, which will attract users from across the Upper Valley
region and beyond. Small-scale interventions will maintain and enhance the beautiful and wild natural landscape that
currently exists on the site, while improving access and connectivity in order to facilitate engaging the multiple programs
proposed. The park is a mile of open space, and its myriad of recreational programs will attract site users, making it one
of the most widely used public open spaces in the region. These programming opportunities will also
At the core of the development is an idea, a philosophy, an ethos of responsible building practice that respects and celebrates
the tremendous natural resources available on the site. This philosophy will be exhibited and showcased through the use
of reclaimed materials from on-site, landscape features that visibly demonstrate sustainable practices, and destination
programming that optimizes the sites natural characteristics.
The park programming is intended to be lightly touching and fitting seamlessly within the natural context of the site. To
this point, each piece of program can be implemented and phased as desired. The natural pathway system and River Park
Trailway shall be implemented first as a means to create a strong framework for the development.
The programming also presents revenue opportunities which are intended to create a self-sustaining financial model for
River Park. Special events, weddings, corporate retreats, kayak/paddleboard rental, camp site reservations are all examples
of funding mechanisms to help support maintenance and operational programs on the site.

SCULPTURE MEADOW

THE ROCK

KIDS NATURE PLAY

WOODLAND VISTA

BOATHOUSE

THE MEADOW

ROCK LEDGE

THE HILL

ECO EXPLORATION

CREEK EDGE ENTRY

THE SWALE

UPPER VALLEY PAVILION

RIVER
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