Switchyard Park Master Plan
Between 2005 and 2009, the City of Bloomington acquired 58 acres of the former switchyard for the old Monon Railroad. The Switchyard Park Master Plan established goals and key designed elements that should be included in the new park once it is completed. The goals for the park are: ImagineBloomington is the update process for the City of Bloomington’s comprehensive plan
• A signature, destination park • A work of art • Safe and accessible for all • Connected to the community • Restored natural landscape • Uniquely Bloomington • An innovative, memorable, & dynamic park experience Key design elements for the park include: • A multipurpose Events Lawn for large civic gatherings, festivals, and informal play • A linear “platform” of active park uses—skate park, spray plaza, playground, community gardens, a grand shelter, entry pavilion, court games, public art—that are defined by the footprint of the former rail tracks • Parking areas • Nearly four miles of new multi-purpose trails to facilitate pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, access, and use • Restoration of the Clear Creek Corridor • Utilization of best practice storm water management techniques • Public art Many of the elements in the Switchyard Park Master Plan align with the goals set forth in this new Master Plan, including programming, trails, and sound maintenance practices.
10
Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department