About the Project
We plan to build an accessible, elevated platform made of packed earth that will offer better views of the preserve and the birds making use of the reservoir. Beginning near one end of the existing crushed stone path, soil will be built up gradually to create a ramp with no more than a 5% slope. The ramp will lead to a flat, 12’ X 15’ area, or platform, that will be built up to roughly 4.5 feet higher than the surrounding ground. Both the ramp and the top of the platform will have handrails for safety and ease of use, and there will be a built-in bench along the back railing of the platform so that visitors can rest as needed. Informational signs about the birds and habitats of the preserve will also be installed on the viewing area. In order to stabilize the soil and provide resources for wildlife, native plant species will be seeded and planted along the slopes of the platform.
Access for Everyone
Currently, it's difficult to see the whole reservoir from any one spot at ground level and it can be hard to see past some of the native vegetation growing along the water (which means it’s hard to see any waterfowl!). That is particularly true for anyone using a wheelchair, and the existing platform at the preserve is not wheelchair accessible. It is important that everyone is able to enjoy the preserve and its birding opportunities, and to ensure that, this platform will be designed and installed with the guidance of accessibility experts and with input from the community. In the future, we plan to continue to improve accessibility by including a curb cut and designated accessible parking space.
