Dallas is set to create a “Nature District” of more than 10,000 acres within an area called the Trinity River Corridor. The immense project serves as notice that the city is serious about greening their surroundings. Upon completion, the district would be 10 times the size of Central Park. The plan is organized around three separate projects, the crown jewel being the Trinity River Park.

Currently, the Trinity River is isolated from the public due to large stretches of undeveloped area. Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates has been charged with designing the park, which will help create a cohesive, green space for Dallas' citizens to enjoy. The firm will essentially transform a large flood plain into a space with playgrounds, nature trails, and open lawns. At the same time, the work will minimize flooding. Partially due to a $50 million donation in late October, the park is seeing a big push toward completion.

Aside from the park, 1,000 acres have already been developed into the Trinity Forest Golf Club, the Texas Horse Park, and the Trinity River Audubon Center. The Audubon Center, which as been in operation since 2008, is already a touchstone of environmental science education for area children, teaching about 25,000 students a year. By next summer a bike path that leads from downtown Dallas to this section of the district should be complete. The last piece of the puzzle is the Trinity Strand Trail, which aims to connect 73 miles of trails. Several miles have already opened last summer, with an aim to connect the Katy Trail with the Trinity River. All told, the project provides a shining example of how green space can be revitalized sensitively for community use.

Here's what Trinity River Park looks like right now.

Renderings show the dramatic transformation the space will undergo.



via [Inhabitat]

All images via Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates.