Projects
Avidly pursuing our mission to restore, enhance and preserve, the Olmsted Parks Conservancy has been working on several major projects this year. None of these would be possible without ongoing contributions to the Conservancy from individuals, foundations, corporations, and Federal grants. From this strong and vigorous platform of support, we are able to fund an incredible array of projects that fulfill Olmsted's vision for our great park system.
Woodlands Restoration in Cherokee and Seneca Parks
If you lived in Louisville in 1974, you undoubtedly have vivid memories of the resulting destruction from the tornados that torn through the Highlands. In Cherokee and Seneca Park alone, acres and acres of woodlands were completely devastated.
Now, more than three decades later, it appears to many the parks have fully recovered. Unfortunately, the truth is the woodlands in Cherokee and Seneca Park are being ravaged by invasive pants. The tornados destroyed the tree canopy that protected the natural ecosystem within the woodlands. Now shrouds of invasive vines take all the sun and water necessary to restore the once healthy woodlands within these parks. The deterioration of our woodlands has also resulted in increased erosion and deterioration in the quality of adjacent waterways.
Olmsted Parks Conservancy has developed a plan to address the critical state of the woodlands and waterways within the borders of Cherokee and Seneca Parks. The Woodlands Restoration Project is undertaking intensive, hands-on work with a group of trained personnel. It is painstakingly slow and tedious work, but it is the only way to ensure that our woodlands and waterways are returned to their natural state for the benefit of future generations.
Learn more about Woodlands Restoration.
Historic Bridges Study for Cherokee Park, Seneca Park, Tyler Park
The 100-year old bridges in these three parks need preservation and/or restoration. This project will detail the work necessary to ensure that these beautiful century-old bridges will serve us well another 100 years. At the same time, we will study the areas immediately up- and down-stream from the bridges to address severe erosion problems.
Master Plans for Tyler Park and the Bonnycastle/Hogan's Fountain Recreation area in Cherokee Park
Each Olmsted park benefits from the planning process that evolves from the development of a Master Plan. This year we will start on the Master Plans for Tyler Park and the Bonnycastle/Hogan's Fountain Recreation area in Cherokee Park.
Riverbank Stabilization in Chickasaw Park
Industrial plants and other man-made structures along the banks of the Ohio River cause erosion along the banks; this erosion is quite severe in places. The Olmsted Conservancy is developing innovative methods to stabilize the shores and restore the once-lovely riverbank in Chickasaw.
Trail and Slope Stabilization in Iroquois Park
Storm water runoff causes erosion which threatens the integrity of the Iroquois Park hill and its trails. The Conservancy is developing stabilization techniques to save this most beautiful feature of our entire park system.
Rest Shelter Restoration in Shawnee Park
Time had taken its toll on the 1920s-era pavilion in Shawnee Park but this structure is being completely renovated. Included in this project, is the construction of a separate restroom facility.