SUMMARY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
The primary features of the Southwest Natural Area are a natural stream system and flood plain, a flood control system, traces of a former slaughterhouse, and the potential impacts of adjacent “big box” development.

The natural stream meander found within the site (and upstream as well) is a good example of the dynamic equilibrium found in all natural stream ecosystems. This is the one signifying feature of the site.

The equilibrium of the stream system found here is severely degraded by the constructed flood control channel and levee. This flood control system is typical of all the streams found within the city of Ithaca and most cities throughout the US.

Only the foundations of the buildings that once served as a slaughterhouse still remain on site. These foundations are located at the only existing vehicular access point into the site.

The design solutions offered here assume that all “big box” development will proceed as planned.

SUMMARY OF DESIGN PROPOSAL
The primary proposal is to leave the site mostly untouched. This is a unique natural area and the last of its kind within the city of Ithaca. Even a modest path running through the system can have harmful effects on the stream’s equilibrium.

Sculptural Installation – abstraction and simulation
This installation simulates the falling of trees into the streambed that would normally occur in a balanced ecosystem. The dynamic installations produce a more diverse habitat by creating turbulence and shade. These sculptures are meant to be highly managed allowing debris to collect only during the summer and fall seasons and then lowered and cleared for the winter and spring.

Park Program – new uses and deeper caring
There are currently no places within the city of Ithaca where it is legal to let a dog run free. The canine species is one of a few animal species that have crossed the dichotomous line between human and natural systems. Within the memorial animal park are additional sculptures of animals further illustrating the biological concept of dynamic equilibrium.

Finally, the Black Diamond trail system will run along the perimeter of the site. This trail will provide opportunities for people to view the sculptures and the undisturbed natural areas on their way to the other city parks.

Catalyst – signifying feature and eco-revelatory vision
The signifying feature of this site is the natural stream meander found at the core of the site. This feature could be a catalyst for a citywide eco-revelatory vision.

Looking back seven generations (1790) we find no sign of the current dynamic degradation occurring in the city of Ithaca – only wetlands, forests and Native American foot trails exist. Looking forward seven generations (2210) we might envision a grand restoration of Ithaca’s indigenous wetlands and natural stream corridors. Furthermore, the concept of “big box” retail stores that currently threaten the Southwest area may no longer exist. It may be a society that relies on both small local markets for produce and specialty goods as well as highly sophisticated courier services for non-perishable goods. The big boxes will exist only at large distribution warehouses – the goods will come to us.