MERIT AWARD

Represents superior accomplishment in the profession of landscape architecture.

Birch Creek Park

PROJECT STATEMENT

Burch Creek Park in South Ogden exemplifies the transformative power of landscape architecture in creating a vibrant community space. Spanning 14 acres, this park was developed through a collaborative effort between city leaders, residents, and regional partners. The landscape architect's vision and meticulous design has turned a challenging, hilly site into a captivating destination for all ages.

The park's design captures the spirit of adventure found in the nearby Wasatch Mountains to create an immersive experience for a broad range of users. The challenging terrain has been enhanced to provide active and passive recreation opportunities, including gathering spaces, interactive water play, sport courts, and unique playground features. The design emphasizes sustainability, with a robust selection of trees for shade, water-conserving plantings, and energy-efficient lighting.

Since its opening, Burch Creek Park has become a beloved community asset and a regional attraction. Its success has inspired the establishment of more new parks in the area and is a testament to the power of visionary design, community engagement, and organizational partnerships, making it deserving of recognition and acclaim.

PROJECT NARRATIVE

Background and Context
South Ogden City acquired 7.3 acres from a former school site to develop a park next to a 6.7-acre Weber School District property. The project began with a master plan and design, supported by a Landscape Architect. The park received a $385,000 RAMP grant in 2018, followed by another $500,000 grant in 2019.

Design Program
The Landscape Architect led a team to create a dynamic, 14-acre park with regional appeal. The design integrates the site's steep terrain, featuring stone, creeks, and streams. A central plaza with interactive water features, picnic pavilions, a playground, and eight pickleball courts anchors the park. A linear pathway links the plaza to multi-purpose fields and a pedestrian alley.

The hill offers multiple recreation options, including a dramatic stairway, an accessible switchback, and an elevated playground. A circular path on the hilltop features exercise nodes, a shelter, and a labyrinth, while a sledding hill and walking trail complete the site.

Design & Context
The park design connects with the nearby foothills, filling a gap in recreational space for the community. Trees provide future shade, and overhead shading structures offer refuge from the sun. Restrooms are designed cabana-style to blend with the park’s aesthetic.

Role of the Landscape Architect
The Landscape Architect led the project from planning through construction, managing the design and implementation.

Environmental Sensitivity & Sustainability
The park features a water-efficient irrigation system, drought-tolerant plants, and energy-saving LED lighting.

Design Value
Burch Creek Park, opened in 2021, became a highly popular and well-used space, attracting visitors beyond South Ogden. It reflects the vision and collaboration of the city, Weber County, and the Weber School District, and has raised public expectations for future parks in the area.