Abstract:
Located in southeastern Indiana, the towns of Brookville and Metamora have been connected by canal and rail since the early 1800s. Built near the shallow Whitewater River, the Whitewater Canal was the first to provide a link for mass transportation of goods and people between the two owns. Susceptibility to flooding and drought issues- as well as the inherently slow transport times via canal led to the transition to rail. Track was laid along the old towpath and was first used for freight lines. As the need for freight decreased, this line was converted to an excursion rail line and is still in use today. It is this rich history and community connectivity that this project capitalizes on.
Research for this project included a review of relevant literature, study of existing similar projects, and observation of the site. This led to an investigation of historically and ecologically sensitive design opportunities along an 8.5-mile greenway that not only provides for connectivity and physical activity, but also integrates learning and education for community members, local schoolchildren, and importance are findings regarding natural restoration techniques, as this project sought not only to negate the impacts of the new greenway, but also the years of degradation to the natural ecosystem caused by the canal and rail line. By integrating natural restoration techniques with education and exercise opportunities, new information has been provided to the field of landscape architecture and to other communities with similar design possibilities.
