Tanner Springs Park

Less than 100 years ago, herons stalked undisturbed through the wet biotope. The estuary of Tanner Creek with the Willamette River was a natural paradise. After draining, first a freight yard and now this vibrant new neighborhood, the Pearl District, sprang up.

From the master plan, Tanner Springs Park was assigned the theme of contemplation. With surgical precision, the urban epidermis of a square of typical block development is removed to expose the layers of development. The wetland is brought back to life, with native plants, dragonflies, frogs and even ospreys taking their place in the new biotope. The lowering of the park made it possible on the one hand to create peace and on the other hand to integrate the "Art Wall". Historical railway tracks, into which fusing glass objects like ambers with melted down former animal and plant species are inserted, create this unique object. As herons dive into the water, frogs croak and the reeds move in the wind, one finds peace and contemplation and reconnects with nature in the midst of the city, a place of refuge for stress-ridden city dwellers.

Intensive citizen participation and a steering committee of residents allowed this park to become the realization of the dreams and hopes of local residents.