ECO-HUB: A Thesis by Adam Reed, AIA, LEED AP

EcoHub A Commuter Terminal on Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Waterfront Adam T. Reed

TTU College of Architecture Masters Design Thesis Spring/Fall 2008 Prof. Jim White :: Prof. Saif Haq

ECO HUB A Commuter Terminal On Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Waterfront by Adam Reed A Thesis In Architecture Submitted to the Architecture Faculty of the College of Architecture Of Texas Tech University in Partial Fulfillment for The Degree of MASTERS OF ARCHITECTURE ________________________________________________ Jim White, AIA :: Chairman of the Committee (Thesis Instructor) _________________________________________________ Saif Haq, PhD :: Thesis Advisor _________________________________________________ Jim White, AIA :: Research Schematics Instructor Accepted ______________________________________ Andrew Vernooy, AIA :: Dean, College of Architecture ______________________________________ Month, Year

Before I Begin: Nearly every year on the last day of classes I try to stop by my professor’s offices and offer my thanks. Brought up believing that it is but the kindness you show that will be returned to you, I strive to show my sincere and humble appreciation for the wisdom—and criticism— they instill in me every year. This year is a little different. This year I’ll be saying thank you in the most cumulative and collective manner possible. This year is my last year. This year is both a thank you and a goodbye. A handshake seems hardly appropriate (or possible) to express my emotions to those who have, over the last five years, sketched me as a designer, quantified me as a an engineer, painted me as an artist, programmed me into a programmer, sculpted me into a builder, envisioned me as a visionary, and formed all of that into that which we all want to be proud of— an architect. The only way I can thank each and every one of you is both with a gift and a promise. The gift is this thesis: a culmination of one year’s research and five years of training, thirty-some-odd sleepless nights, two computer crashes, a roll of sketch paper, eight precedent studies, five schematic iterations, every weekend of my summer, a sliced finger, a final presentation, and endless trips to Varsity. The promise is that I will take forth that which you have given me and apply it to make this world better.

There are some people who cannot say that they had such a short impact on my life. For I have known them for much longer and they are the sole reason for me being the man that they always told me I could become. Mom, Dad, and Lance—thank you. Thank you for your belief in me, your invaluable support, your time, and your resources. I’ll never know another human being more sincerely dedicated to my success than my own mom. I’ve never been more driven to be a good role model if not for my younger brother, Lance. Dad, I’m not sure there will ever be a better investment than the one you’ve put into me the past twenty three years. I have mentioned time and time again that my girlfriend, Crista, could pass first year design with the amount of time I spend talking about architecture around her. She has been more than just my sanity and my stronghold the past five years. She has, and continues to be my best friend and the most compelling reason to love all that you have and all that you may never see. To all of my family, in blood and in friendship, thank you for the memories, the opportunities, the friendship and the lessons. Here is my final thank you. Enjoy.

Contents 4

Preface

Space Summary

List of Illustrations

Context 76 Introduction 79 Site Plans 80 Ecology 82 Neighboring Structures 86 Circulation Patterns 92 Site Analysis 107 Issues

13 Theory 14 Introduction 18 Overview 28 Issues 32 Precedent I: 34 Precedent II: 37 Precedent III: 39 Facility 40 Background 43 Mission Statement and Issues 54 Mobile Units 55 Precedent I: 58 Precedent II: 60 Precedent III:

114 Design Response 115 Thesis 116 Schematic Design 127 Preliminary Design 135 Structures + Systems + Qualifying 142 Final Design 168

Appendix

170

References & Works Cited

Preface 5

Project Statement: The former Meigs Field on Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Northerly Island transformed the way aviation and civic activity could co-exist. Along the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterfront, planes would trace their paths along the marinas and parks below. After its closing in 2003, the island has sat dormant, contributing nothing to the urban environment socially, culturally, or economically. With such close proximity to the museum district and Soldier Field, this area is primed for multi-modal integration. The existing utilities, context, and heritage all play integral roles in the ability for a hybrid facility type to not only service the Chicago waterfrontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transportation needs, but its ecological needs, as well.

Preface 6

Assertion: A congested network of traffic is the lifeblood of interaction and can be an established point of departure for sustainable transportation solutions.

Thesis: The existing ecological context can influence the design of a responsive multimodal terminal servicing transportation and civic needs for both tourists and commuters.

Preface 7

The Story In today’s society, travelers and commuters have become the contemporary warriors of the urban environment. Tourists and businessmen utilize virtually every form of transportation on a daily basis, often spending more time in idle cars or congested airports than at their destination. Imagine how much pollution, how many resources are contributed to these “hubs” and “pods” of transportation. Imagine what it would be like to solve a city’s congestive tourist needs and local business routes from a singular location that not only provides multi-modal transportation, but a way to boost a tangled network of existing transportation types into an ecological and civic experience. Chicago’s Northerly Island once housed Meigs Airfield, a small set of runways that stretched the length of the peninsula near Soldier Field and the Museum district. Although inactive and in need of serious renovation, Meigs Field sits near the hub of five major modes of transportation that service the cultural epicenter of Chicago. To the west, Burnham Harbor is the anchoring point of many private yachts and tour/party boats. Just north of the strip is the ever-buzzing Solidarity Drive which stretches from the main shore at the Field Museum past the Shedd Aquarium and terminates at the Adler Planetarium. This road sees taxi, bus, and shuttle traffic 24/7. Across Burnham Harbor is the Metra Electric commuter rail (with station) which stretches across the lakeshore for miles. Small planes and private corporate jets could still utilize the abandoned landing strip if re-evaluated and incorporated into a hub of transportation services. With all of the rails and sails that cut through this scenic lakefront property, it is necessary to observe the one mode of transportation that does not insult or harm it: pedestrians. Many people walk and jog the paths and shores provided in the museum district, and even down Northerly Island’s “park-like” bleakness. And as most modern (or postmodern) architecture is designed to be viewed as passing whisps from a car

window or as a static image in a magazine, the opportunity to design for the pedestrian can once again be reclaimed as the sustainable option as it was before the 1900’s. The paradox lies in the ability to organize and compress the many modes of transportation into an ecologically friendly facility that accommodates vehicular routes and landscape. This culture of congestion is not one unfamiliar to architects. Rem Koolhaas, as my preeminent source of congestive theory has dealt with programmatic hybridity and capacity more than virtually any other contemporary architect. And when addressing sustainability and ecological responsibility, I will be looking mainly to the city of Chicago itself for answers to today’s design accountability issues. Facility-wise, the epistemology of transportation building types as well as visitor’s centers and museums will be an area of focus (as this transit hub will not only service the passerby, but the inquirer and destination seeker, as well.) Issues such as density, proximity, expanse, and influence will be theoretically based in the most profitable examples of current and historic multi-modal transportation documented. As well, non-building (or rather non-architectural) topics will be researched and addressed to look at both contextual and design-approach opportunities that would normally be outside the realm of new construction or urban design. Therefore, contextual sensitivity becomes the major issue in this project as it comes in the form of historical, cultural, psychological, geographical, and economic entities. The history and existing condition of Burnham’s plan for the Chicago waterfront is detailed out in his masterplan which encompasses the Northerly Island site. Being careful not to disrupt the existing architecture and sense of place will to be somewhat of a challenge, but more importantly, a requirement of sustainable (longevitydriven) design.

Illustrations 8

Theory 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 1.18 1.19 1.20 1.21

Collection of Fare cards. Joe Caronetti, thesubwaynut.com Density and the Urban Condition, Anushka Kalbag, Pratt Institute design project Pedestrians Traversing the Lower Don, Toronto. Weiss/Manfredi Architects. www. torontoist.com East River Esplanade of Lower Manhattan, SHop Architects. From Nan Ellin’s Inte gral Urbanism, precis. “Etching” Suburban Transformations, Paul Lukez Etching: Abandoned Railroad Tracks, from www.disordered.com “Excision” Suburban Transformations, Paul Lukez Excision: Zaha Hadid’s BMW Plant, from www.arcspace.com “Entropy” Suburban Transformations, Paul Lukez Entropy: Ruins at Xcaret, photo by author “Infill” Suburban Transformations, Paul Lukez Infill: Battery Park, from traceurbanism.worldpress.com “Absorption” Suburban Transformations, Paul Lukez Absorption: Related Westside Yards, Goldman Sachs and KPF, from relatedwest sideyards.com “Wrapping” Suburban Transformations, Paul Lukez Wrapping: Seattle Public Library, Rem Koolhaas & OMA, from seattleprimatege nomics.com “Parasitic” Suburban Transformations, Paul Lukez Parasitic: Licenza, Italy, photo by author “Morphing” Suburban Transformations, Paul Lukez Morphing: Morphing Camden, from www.acrosa.com/miami/intro.htm Chicago from Grant Park, from chicagoadventures.com

Illustrations 9

Theory (cont.) * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Diagram: Opening in Structure for Baggage and Transportation, from Binney, Mar cus. Architecture of Rail: The Way Ahead, (London: Academy Editions, 1995). Diagram: Multiple Route Terminals, from Developing Around Transit: Strategies and Solutions That Work, Robert T. Dunphy, ed. Diagram: Existing transportation routes, by author Site plan, Zeebrugge Sea Terminal, from S,M,L,XL, p. 585 Terminal Model, from Ten Architects, p. 337 Zeebrugge Sea Terminal, from S.M.L.XL, 586-7 Interior of Terminal, from S.M.L.XL, p.594-5 Section, from S.M.L.XL, p.590-1 Plan showing roads, from S.M.L.XL, p.589 IIT Train terminal, www.OMA.eu Work stations, www.OMA.eu Learning Center from Street, www.OMA.eu Aerial view of campus, www.iit.edu google images rapid search Spatial Intervention, www.OMA.eu Under Construction, www.iit.eu Open area, www.iit.eu Public space in Tribune, www.OMA.eu View of pod from canal, vincent.callebaut.org Digital model showing tower and pod, vincent.callebaut.org Night rendering of light emission, vincent.callebaut.org Concept diagram showing influences, vincent.callebaut.org Day rendering showing hanging vegetation, vincent.callebaut.org Cafeteria with natural daylighting, vincent.callebaut.org

Illustrations 10

Facility 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Passing train, from http://pacific-islander.blogspot.com/2007_02_01_archive.html Crossing the Ferry-Scene on the Pee Dee, William Ranney, 1846, oil on canvas Hoboken Terminal, from www.philly2hoboken.com The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in Chicago, Ill, from www.carsareevil.com Traffic Congestion on Highway, from www.msnbc.com/news/2027856.jpg Urban Transportation Planning In The US - A Historical Overview/Nov 1992 Rail station security surveillance, from www.arinc.com Proposed METRA LRT cars, from http://metraconnects.metrarail.com Existing METRA cars, from http://ctabrownline.com/fullertonconstruction_pop.html Yokohama Port aerial view, from The Yokohama Project Edge condition, from The Yokohama Project Multi-purpose event space, from The Yokohama Project Longitudinal Rendering, from The Yokohama Project Harborside, from The Yokohama Project Landside, from The Yokohama Project Distribution of Program, from The Yokohama Project Grass roof, from The Yokohama Project Trails and tracks, from The Yokohama Project Grass roof detail and construction, from The Yokohama Project Diagrams showing stacking, structure, and circulation, from The Yokohama Project Ticketing and Ferry Operations, from Breen, Ann and Dick Rigby. The New Water front: A Worldwide Urban Success Story, (New York: McGraw-Hill, 1996). Details Showing Metaphor and Structure, from The New Waterfront: A Worldwide Urban Success Story. Under the Canopy, from Transport Facilities: New Concepts in Architecture & De sign, (Tokyo: Meisei Publications, 1997).

Illustrations 11

Theory * * * * *

Approaching the Station, from Transport Facilities: New Concepts in Architecture & Design, (Tokyo: Meisei Publications, 1997). Drawings and Site Plan, from Transport Facilities: New Concepts in Architecture & Design, (Tokyo: Meisei Publications, 1997).

Illustrations 12

Context 3.1 * * * * * * * * *

Chicago XV, Greatest Hits, cover label Rescuing an injured osprey on Northerly Island, from Advocacy for Animals, www. advocacy.britannica.com. Overgrown grass on Northerly Island, from www.citynoise.com Chicago Annual Rainfall and Min/Max Temperature, from http://www.wordtravels. com/Cities/Illinois/Chicago/Climate Burnham Park Yacht Club, East entrance, from http://www.bpyc.com/ Boats in Burnham Harbor, from http://www.bpyc.com/ Swimming the 5k marathon, from http://womenwhoride.typepad.com Depth Chart, by author Section through harbor, proposed Parks & Planes Museum, from http://64.143.36.15/

THEORY

1.1

Theory_Introduction 14

There is not a single theory that doesn’t rely upon others as either a precursor or an antithesis. Therefore, no singular theory would solve all of the project’s issues fully or directly. Looking at three different (but not unrelated) theories will yield a multi-scalar understanding of both Northerly Island, as well as Chicago’s waterfront. From here, facility and contextual issues will be more clearly linked and assessed.

Culture of Congestion (Rem Koolhaas) As the societal assessment of 21st century cities

Sustainable Transportation As the tool for mainstream accessibility

Integral Urbanism (Nan Ellin)

As the agent for design decisions

Theory_Introduction 15

Culture of Congestion_ Rem Koolhaas discusses a â&#x20AC;&#x153;culture of congestionâ&#x20AC;? in places that promote density and, therefore, amalgamated program requirements. Congestion, in this sense, does not refer to a crowding or slowing of a particular process, but rather an intensification or fusion of events, forms, and services. Certainly a transportation hub, with multiple transit options, will deal with congestive intermodality as a way to create hybrid spaces and a themed identity.

1.2 Congestive intermodality: Density and the Urban Environment

Theory_Introduction 16

Sustainable Transportation_ This contemporary cultural theory looks at planning and design at an urban scale, developing and involving entities that participate in local governmental and civic operations. This theory sprouts from the seeds of sustainability by means of public transportation. The options are weighed, crossreferenced, and enacted to create corridors of â&#x20AC;&#x153;accessibility, not mobility.â&#x20AC;? The stewardship principle of experiencing and learning from the immediate environment is captivating when considering the programmable possibilities to do so.

1.3 Pedestrians traversing the Lower Don in Toronto

Theory_Introduction 17

Integral Urbanism_ Despite the name, Integral Urbanism focuses much more on the building scale (and micro-theory) than might seem. There are five qualities that define Nan Ellinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theory1: 1) Hybridity, 2) Connectivity, 3) Porosity, 4) Authenticity, and 5) Vulnerability. Of these, this project will focus on the relationship between hybridity and connectivity with respect to building type and its relationship with the environment, as well as porosity within the function and flow of the materials and programs.

1.4 East River Esplanade of Lower Manhattan, SHoP Architects

Nan Ellin, Integral Urbanism, p.8.

Theory_Overview 18

The application of theory(ies): Each of the three theories can be applied methodologically to the project through overall integration of principle. Each calls for a social responsibility at the edge of design and integrity. Each denotes existing characteristics that define “urban” for the 21st century. Each theory advocates a “smart structure” that results from an analysis of both the tangible and phenomenological aspects of either the facility or the context. By looking at congestive theory as a sustainable (even ecological) condition, it makes sense that the people who interact with naturally occurring forms should mimic and re-interpret them into built forms. And people have to get around. So, transportative theory (when using hybridity, connectivity, and porosity) becomes naturally stitched into the landscape. It utilizes the same vocabulary that nature does when dealing with

Theory_Overview 19

introducing new forms. Runoff, absorption, deposit, etch, mix, wrap, parasite, host, compactiveness, fluidity, foreign, symbiosis... just a sample of the methods that nature applies as design principles. Coupling the very nature of congestive movement and sustainable transportation will render a result that benefits both the user and the site. Experimental “erasures” and “writings” will create surface structures that relate (additionally or subtractively) to the landscape. Hybrid forms of transportation will mix with hybrid forms of structure to create spaces with identity and relevance. Utilizing the vocabulary above, the following are a few theoretical design strategies to be examined:1

Early Schematic Sketch, June 2008

Paul Lukez, Suburban Transformations, 2007, 27-32.

Theory_Overview 20

Etching_ 1.5 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Etching marks the site, leaving a trace of past interventions or future intentions. This registration can be left through... the minimal addition of material to delineate the trace.â&#x20AC;?

1.6 Etching: Abandoned Railroad Tracks

Theory_Overview 21

Excision_ 1.7 “An excision is a precise and deliberate cut through an existing urban context or building. It slices through a fabric or mass... motivated by the need to liberate, reveal, or explore parts of buildings as well as connect remote or inaccessible points or destinations.”

1.8 Excision: Zaha Hadid’s BMW Plant

Theory_Overview 22

Entropy_ 1.9 “Entropy is ever-present as a natural force. The durability of a building’s lifecycle is a function of the materials used and the method of construction.”

1.10 Entropy: Ruins in Xcaret, Mexico

Theory_Overview 23

Infill_ 1.11 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Infill is about filling or constructing a void. The void can be territorial... or about filling the gap between two preexisting buildings or structures. Infill is important in creating continuity in our environments [and] involves taking advantage of existing capacity. [Infill] can slow the rate at which rural landscapes and functioning ecosystems are paved over by development.â&#x20AC;?

1.12 Infill: Battery Park

Theory_Overview 24

Absorption_ 1.13 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Absorption describes the change that occurs when the space around a building or object is encroached upon. The process can be gradual or accelerated, yet in both cases the original object is no longer distinguishable as a separate entity from its surrounding context.â&#x20AC;?

1.14 Absorption: Related Westside Yards

Theory_Overview 25

Wrapping_ 1.15 “Wrapping sheathes an existing volume or surface in a new skin, redefining the boundary between the interior and exterior.” The depth of skin need not be limited to the width of a wall, and can entail the creation of thicker, habitable zones of space.”

1.16 Wrapping: Seattle Public Library

Theory_Overview 26

Parasitic_ 1.17 â&#x20AC;&#x153;A larger construction can serve as an armature, or host, to smaller embedded accretions of forms and spaces... so that its original form is no longer identifiable.â&#x20AC;?

1.18 Parasitic: Licenza, Italy

Theory_Overview 27

Morphing_ 1.19 â&#x20AC;&#x153;In morphing, the material and volume of a form remain constant, while its shape and configuration transform and mutate into new forms. Forms may be subtly refined or radically altered.â&#x20AC;?

1.20 Morphing: Morphing Camden

Theory_Issues 28

theoretical design

Theoretical design issues to explore: Identity- To assess the current identity of the parkscape and represent that in the building. Connectivity- To manage multi-directional traffic and services and promote the site as a viable destination unto itself. Integration- To look at “one environment,” not “built and natural environment.”1

1 Dr. Amy Freeman Lee, interview with Prof. David Driskill, Texas Tech College of Architecture, 1985

1.21

issues

Theory_Issues 29

Identity Goal: The project should act as a landmark for itself, but absorb as much of the existing environment and character as possible. Performance Requirement: Design a parasitic structure that embeds itself into a hosting context. Potential Design Response: Exaggerate, at- tenuate, distill, idealize, and erode the elemental factors of vernacular forms.1

Performance Requirement: Express local building crafts with the newest technologies and methods.

Potential Design Response: Design according to appropriate waterfront standards.2 Potential Design Response: Use regional materials and proper construction types.

1 Malcolm Quantrill, Plain Modern: The Architecture of Brian MacKayLyons, 2005, 64. 2 See Appendix A

Theory_Issues 30

Connectivity Goal: The site should foster integration of various transportation types and ease of travel for commuters. Performance Requirement: Relate “etchings” of existing travel with architectural connectors. Potential Design Response: Provide for concourse space and public/ private interchanges.

Performance Requirement: Position structure and accessibility points according to openings and “exci- sions” in the system.

Potential Design Response: Operate with open spaces that allow for ease of wayfinding and traversing. Single-Route Terminals: If vehicle storage occurs off site, a terminal station on a single-route system will generally require double the platform space needed by in-line stations. For rail systems, crossover or tail tracks near the station are needed for the storage and reversing of vehicles.

Multiple-Route Terminals: A terminal station at which concurrently operating routes converge will require space for the parallel storage of vehicles as well as one or two parallel platforms for each route.

Theory_Issues 31

Integration Goal: To create appreciation for (and observation of) both the natural and manmade context that creates the overall landscape. Performance Requirement: Create systems of in door and outdoor spaces that relate to one another. Potential Design Response: Ventilate surfaces and materials that will create porous boundaries. Performance Requirement: Introduce programs and spaces that will be used to observe nature and people. Potential Design Response: Create trails, grasslands, decks, and information centers to bring awareness to natural and built conditions.

“Not only would the boats turn into floating entertainment worlds, but their destinations-the terminals- would shed their utilitarian character and become attractions... that effortlessly swallows, entertains, and processes the traveling masses.” -Rem Koolhaas, SMLXL, 581.

Theory_Precedent Study 32

Zeebrugge Sea Terminal Zeebrugge, Belgium Rem Koolhaas competition, 1989 This competition entry was an ambitious attempt in both scale and program. Koolhaas attempted to encapsulate the “coming century’s diversity and contradiction”1 by creating spaces that accept trains, roads, observers, and maritime traffic at the same time. The building accepts the most congested inputs: “intersecting roads serving both public and private traffic, pedestrian routes connecting to the land, catwalks leading to ships, etc.”2 Koolhaas, therefore, notes that the base is the most unstable part as it is the most active area with the most interaction of forces and events. A “working Babel”3 he calls it.

Theory_Precedent Study The project alludes to maritime travel while dealing with congestive theory on land. To organize these cross-cultures, Koolhaas implements the use of free section. He perceives the skin of the building to be nothing more than a superficial membrane, and therefore, secondary to the structure that creates the intended form. Koolhaas looks at travel as the experience and encounters implicit in different means of transportation. He therefore takes a great deal of programmable space and allots it to the â&#x20AC;&#x153;destination sequenceâ&#x20AC;? of events that one can enjoy while moving throughout the terminal. Large lobbies, retail, media centers, and corporate lounges act as theatres for the tourist and business commuter. ____________ 1,2 Raphael Moneo. Theoretical Anxiety and Design Strategies in the Work of Eight Contemporary Architects, 336 3 Rem Koolhaas. S,M,L,XL, 579.

description

Theory_Precedent Study 34

McCormick Tribune Campus Chicago, Ill Rem Koolhaas, OMA 2003

This project includes a bookstore, auditorium, foodcourt, computer facilities, and meeting halls. Its intention is to link the east and west sides of campus by means of public space and sustainable transportation options. While visitors in the immediate area travel by foot or bicycle, they can commute to the rest of Chicago by means of shuttle, bus, or light rail. The existing infrastructure of the elevated steel rail (the L) was given prominance and attention by means of architectural intervention.

Theory_Precedent Study 35

â&#x20AC;&#x153;To us the conundrum implies a building that is able to (re)urbanize the largest possible area with the least amount of (built) substance.â&#x20AC;? -Rem Koolhaas, www.OMA.eu

Status: Competition 1997, 1st Prize. Completion 2003 Site: In the center of historic Mies van der Rohe campus, underneath the metro, neighboring a Mies pavilion Program: 10,690 m2: campus center Client: Illinois Institute of Technology Budget: $US35m (from www.OMA.eu)

Theory_Precedent Study 36 The activities were not stacked, but rather positioned into an â&#x20AC;&#x153;involved mosaicâ&#x20AC;?1 to respond directly to the urban environment. Without fragmenting the overall building, each of the constituent parts is articulated according to its specific needs and positioned to respond precisely to contextual influence to create neighborhoods (twenty-four hour, commercial, entertainment, academic, utilitarian), parks and other urban elements in miniature.

Term by Rem Koolhaas, www.OMA.eu

Theory_Precedent Study 37

Anti Smog

French architect Vincent Callebaut designed the Anti-Smog project as an attempt to raise awareness to issues regarding Parisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pollutive lifestyle along the canals. The organically designed scheme has two components (a tower and a podlike structure) which is docked on the old railway bridge spanning the canal. The pod (known as the Solar Drop) will have a 250 square metre photovoltaic blue roof which will capture the sun and convert it into energy for the pod. The main structure of the pod is made up of polyester fibers which are strengthened along its main profiles with steel banding. The whole structure is then covered in titanium dioxide which reacts with ultra violet light to reduce pollution.

Paris, France Vincent Callebaut 2007

Theory_Precedent Study “As an auto cleaning building it will also be able to absorb and recycle by means of photo catalytic technology the smog cloud generated by the huge amounts of traffic on the near by Parisian belt” -from skyscrapercity.com

38 The pod will also be completely energy efficient by means of two planted arches running along the top that collect rainwater that filters into a purified lagoon (centerpiece of the pod). The tower will act as a wind collector. The core of the tower will be covered in digital screens which will constantly beam the news and announcement for pedestrians. “A ribbon like banister unfurls itself down the length of the tower the main body of which is moves in accordance with the direction of the dominant wind.”1 The skin of the tower will be covered with greenery and punctuated with slits which hold the wind turbines. At the top of the tower a suspended public garden will offer spectacular views of Paris. 1 from http://vincent.callebaut.org/page1-imgourcq.html

FACILITY

2.1

Facility_Background 40

Multimodal Terminal Example & History_

2.2 Crossing the Ferry-Scene on the Pee Dee, William Ranney, 1846, oil on canvas

2.3 Hoboken Terminal, ca.1890’s.

Passenger transport has always been intermodal.1 Some of the earliest examples involved people switching from carriages to ferries at the edge of rivers that were too deep to ford. In the 1800s, people who lived inland connected from train to ship for overseas voyages. Hoboken Terminal in Hoboken, New Jersey was built to let commuters to New York City from New Jersey switch to ferries to cross the Hudson River in order to get to Manhattan. (A massive ferry slip, now in ruins, was incorporated into the terminal building.) Later, when a subway was built through tunnels under the Hudson, now called the PATH, a station stop was added to Hoboken Terminal. More recently, the New Jersey Transit’s Hudson-Bergen Light Rail system has included a stop there, but it is a relatively long walk from the terminal building. Ferry service has been revived,

1 “intermodal passenger transport” article, www.wikipedia. com, accessed Feb. 9, 2008.

Facility_Background 41

2.4 The ‘L’ in Chicago, Ill.

2.5 Traffic Congestion on Highway

but passengers must exit the terminal and walk across the pier to the slip. Many large cities with “intracity rail” link the rail network with the bus network. This enables riders to get to places that are not serviced directly by rail or would be too far for walking. In Chicago, for instance, to travel from the Loop to the Museum of Science and Industry, one must take the ‘L’ to Garfield Boulevard then transfer to a bus to the museum. Interest in multimodal transportation comes from the problems caused by traffic congestion worldwide and a shared interest in accessability and ease of both communication and travel. Traffic congestion has been increasing world-wide as a result of increased motorization, urbanization, population growth and massive shifts in population density. Urban cores see the bulk of this. Congestion therefore reduces efficiency of transportation infrastructure and increases travel time, air pollution and fuel consumption. The United States saw large increases in both motorization and urbanization starting in the 1920s that led to migration of the population from the sparsely populated rural areas and

Facility_Background 42

2.6 Urban Highway Traffic vs. Travel Time, Urban Transportation Planning In The US - A Historical Overview/Nov 1992

2.7 Rail station security surveillance

the densely packed urban areas into suburbs. This was the start of the phenomenon known as “sprawl.” The industrial economy eventually replaced the agricultural economy, which lead the population to move from rural areas to urban centers. At the same time, motorization was causing cities to expand because motorized transportation could not support the population density that the existing mass transit systems could support. Eventually, much of public transit was released from privatized subsidation and the “general public” could afford the service.1 Recently, multimodality has seen involvement from the federal and state governments, motivated by an interest in homeland security. Many systems proposed in recent years involve surveillance of the roadways, which is a priority of homeland security.2 The most current articles of research going into the issue regard sustainability and emergency control. Multimodal urban hubs can play a significant part in rapid mass evacuation of people in the event of mass casualty, disaster, or threat. 1 See Appendix B 2 Torin Monahan, War Rooms of the Street: Surveillance Practices in Transportation Control Centers, 367-389.

Facility_Issues 43

Mission Statement: Create a multimodal transit center that fosters a sense of sustainability through both transit and environment. Facility design issues to explore:

facility design

Preservation- How to rehabilitate the lost character of Meigs Field as a functioning airfield. â&#x20AC;&#x153;POIâ&#x20AC;?- How to create a point of interest on an urban peninsula. Responsiveness- How the building will respond to annual and daily climate changes. Intermodality- Encourage various transportation options that access different areas.

issues

Facility_Issues 44

Preservation Goal: Preserve the history of Meigs Field as a functioning

airfield. Performance Requirement: Create a marketable image of the airfield to businessmen and tourists.

Potential Design Response: Extend to other nearby sites via transportation or landscape.

Potential Design Response: Provide services such as grounds tours and informational media.

Potential Design Response: Become an alternative to Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hare and Midway.

Potential Design Response: Express water front appeal.

Facility_Issues 45

Preservation (cont.)

Performance Requirement: Address air traffic safety and pollution concerns sustainably. Potential Design Response: Use natural planting to create boundaries and screen imposing security.

Potential Design Response: Flight schedules will adapt to regional influences such as temperature, time of day, capacity, wind and migratory patterns, etc.

NOTE: (Only small and private aircraft will be able to access the 3000â&#x20AC;&#x2122; runway. This is an environ- mental incentive with regards to both lower fuel emissions and lighter arrival scheduling.)

Potential Design Response: Re-position landing strip to accomodate smaller aircraft turning radii (in turn maximizing land use.)

Facility_Issues 46

Point of Interest Goal: Create a multimodal center that is a terminus and point of interest for visitors. Performance Requirement: Be flexible enough to host as many events with as little built context as possible. Potential Design Response: Utilize versatile surfaces above and under open structure. Performance Requirement: Design for a pedestrian scale. Potential Design Response: Create a â&#x20AC;&#x153;streetscapeâ&#x20AC;? that continues through the terminal.

Potential Design Response: Create unique pedestrian activities.

Potential Design Response: Design in elevation and section to establish pedestrian scale.

Facility_Issues 47

Point of Interest (cont.) Performance Requirement: Create retail, services, and attractions that will interest visitors and commuters. Potential Design Response: Excursions and tours of Northerly Island. Potential Design Response: Boat observatory and Restaurant.

Potential Design Response: Boardwalk with retail and outdoor activities.

(Bike shops, kite flying, rowing, sailing, fishing, outdoor productions, air shows.)

Facility_Issues 48

Responsiveness Goal: Assertively respond to climate changes. Performance Requirement: Take advantage of natural energy sources. Potential Design Response: Place building for maximum site impact.

Potential Design Response: Harness wind from lake using wind generative resources.

Potential Design Response: Use photovoltaic systems to catch daylight and store it for energy use.

Potential Design Response: Use trees and green roofs to direct drainage and respond to wind/ sun.

Facility_Issues 49

Responsiveness (cont.) Performance Requirement: Create varying day to night ambiance. Potential Design Response: Adjust lighting to contrast with darkness of penninsula.

Potential Design Response: Replace daytime venues with night time venues using similar spaces.

Potential Design Response: Allow for facade to change from day to night by means of dynamic glazing and louver systems.

Facility_Issues 50

Responsiveness (cont.) Performance Requirement: Utilize sky and water as design tools. Potential Design Response: Allow structure to reflect the sky and lake by using glass curtain walls. Potential Design Response: Draw from themes on the lakefront to create an architecture that responds to the natural context.

Facility_Issues 51 Bus

Intermodality Goal: Encourage transportation options allowing access to different areas. Performance Requirement: Solve all transfer issues sustainably. Potential Design Response: Create switches at close distances, either spatially in plan or by accelerating travel paths.

Potential Design Response: Use new techno- logical strategies, such as â&#x20AC;&#x153;people movers,â&#x20AC;? to distribute passengers to their mode of transportation.

Potential Design Response: Define paths with materials approved in The HOK Guidebook to

Sustainable Design, second edition.1

Plane METRA

TERMINAL SWITCH

Boat

TRACK SWITCH

Collect

Service

Low-E Glass Natural Plants Low VOC Recycled Material

1 The HOK Guidebook to Sustainable Design, second edition, Sandra Mendler, William Odell, and Mary Ann Lazarus, eds. (Hoboken, NJ: Wiley & Sons, 2006).

Facility_Issues 52

Intermodality (cont.)

Performance Requirement: Provide “access” and “connectivity” rather than “mobility.”

ACCESS= Reaching more places efficiently. MOBILITY= Going further faster. Potential Design Response: Interlock various transportation paths. Potential Design Response: Vary distances of access per transportation type.

Potential Design Response: Create a system of cross traffic that will respond to on-site circulation.

air 10+ miles

LRT 5 miles boat 1 mile

Pedestrian <1 mile Bus/ Shuttle 2 miles

Facility_Issues 53

Intermodality (cont.) Performance Requirement: Promote jobs and programmable space that supports commerce revolving around sustainable transportation concepts. Potential Design Response: Bus tokens, bike shops, and water rides mixed into retail and information kiosks. Potential Design Response: Revolve outdoor activities around open spaces that are linked to indoor and outdoor esplanades. (Fishing, rowing, kite flying, biking, plays, music.)

Facility_Mobile Units 54

METRA *Note: All specifications are for the new fleet

of METRA to be released by August 2010.

Vehicle Type: Double-ended, articulated car,

multiple unit operation up to four cars.

Fleet Size: 130 operable. 6 of which service the

vicinity of the site.

Vehicle Height: 12’-6” Vehicle Width: 8’-10” Vehicle Length: 92’-8” Vehicle Weight: 97,000 lbs. Passenger Capacity: 160 passengers, 76 seated Travel Speed: Top-65 mph, Average-25 to 35 mph Body: Lightweight, welded steel, with reinforced

fiberglass covering operator cab and weatherproof articu-

lated (bending) section. Designed for 30 year life.

Cooling/Heating: Heating, ventilation, and A/C system Wheels: Steel-tired with acoustic dampening Doors: Four sliding doorways per car Special Features: ADA accessible/ Smart Card Power Requirements: 20 KWH per hour of operation Vehicle Cost: $1.8 million each

Facility_Precedent Study 55

The Yokohama Project (Yokohama International Port Terminal)

Yokohama, Japan Foreign Office Architects 1995-2002

The Yokohama Project is a linear string of multi-use facilities encapsulated by public parks and outdoor jogging trails. Large cruise ships board next to the outboarding docks, which flow seamlessly into the buildings interior and roof forms. While this project is much larger than the one that this program prescribes, it has many of the same contextual elements and aesthetic components.

Facility_Precedent Study 56

The variation between the seaside identity and the landside identity gives senses of floating and embedding from different approaches. The water face is much more nautical and streamline to reflect the cruise ships than the vehicular drive-in, which dips into the heart of the building and allows for easy access to the programs within.

Facility_Precedent Study 57

Facility_Precedent Study 58

Hamburg Ferry Terminal

Hamburg, Germany Alsop and Stormer/ William Alsop Architects 1990-1992

The 186m long terminal has a covered esplanade that shields commuters from the sun and rain. Along the dock, restaurants, retail, offices, and service centers are located for waiting passengers. 129,000 square feet of terminal is divided into 6 floors. Each floor is divided into independent functions to allow the larger cruise ships and ferries to access the dockside. One end of the terminal is used specifically for ferry passenger operations. The rest of the first floor is restaurants, shopping, and flex space. The top two floors are office space that offer wonderful views of the skyline. The terminal is located just minutes from Hamburgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CBD.1

1 Breen, Ann and Dick Rigby. The New Waterfront: A Worldwide Urban Success Story, (New York: McGraw-Hill, 1996).

Facility_Precedent Study 59 The Hamburg Ferry Terminal uses nautical themes in the design to emphasize its functiona and identity in the environment. A subtle mix of port windows and mast-like bracing members wrap from bow to stern of the building.

Facility_Precedent Study 60

Kasai Rinkai Park Water Bus Landing

Tokyo, Japan Taniguchi & Assoc. 2000 As a transfer station for the urban park, the water bus landing brings visitors off of a scenic dock and waterfront into a light and breezy pavilion. The economical building type utilizes fabric canopies and glass walls to achieve a simpe and clean appearance.

The exposed construction and terracing of platforms is something to look at as a case study.

SPACE SUMMARY

Airfield Ticketing Facts

Attendants will be linked to both local and regional air traffic. Therefore, each attendant will need a computer station and phone service to check with air traffic control & TSA. Close proximity to the baggage handling will be a neccessity, as well.

Goals To keep the ticketing station as open, but secure, as possible. To create minimal traffic while waiting for available

Passenger Drop-Off

Airfield Ticketing

Baggage

agent.

Issues Security

CENTRAL TERMINAL

Security

Needs Ticketing kiosks, self check-in, attendant stations, network connection, comfortable lighting conditions.

Area Requirements Should be close to baggage handling. Visible connection to security, concourse, and passenger dropoff.

Concourse

SPACE SUMMARY

Control Tower

Airfield Baggage Handling

To efficiently transfer baggage from building to air-

nw ay

Goals

passenger pick-up

Baggage moves parallel to, but seperate from, passengers on both departure and arrival. The baggage is transfered to private control after going through ticketing agent. It is returned to owner after plane arrives via baggage claim space.

Baggage Handling

craft through an integrated system.

Issues Security, Privacy, Axiality

Ticketing

Needs Conveyor belts, sorting area, transportation means, loading/unloading space

Area Requirements Should be below level of passenger circulation. Sorting area can be outdoors, but covered.

Security

SPACE SUMMARY

Facts

Airfield Concourse

To create an integrated concourse with the outdoors by means of materials and light. To create comfort and flexibility.

Issues Security, segregation, scale, attaching, function, identity

Air Concourse Retail, Lounge, Restrooms

Needs Ample seating, information monitors, intercom system, retail/ cafe space, horizontal people movers, vending, seperate restrooms and retail from rest of airfield.

Business Center

Area Requirements Clear distinction between circulation and seating. Visibility to airfield and baggage claim. Ventilation and lighting should be compliant with local Energy Code.

Ticketing

Security

SPACE SUMMARY

Goals

The defining character of the airfield. Where passengers will spend the most time as they wait to board aircraft. Given the size of the terminal, the concourse will act as the gate and possibly apron area for the aircaft.

nw ay

Facts

Control Tower

Restrooms

ay nw

The control tower is the single most important part of the airfield. Without it, any air travel is impossible. The control tower also has to be the most visible space from the airside of the building. The connection between control tower, TSA, and aircraft is done chiefly through wireless satellite communications. The tower must be able to operate as an independent area.

Control Tower

Goals To create a tower that can both function as an air traffic control tower as well as an observation deck for viewing downtown.

Issues Privacy, security, visibility

Needs Control panels, rooftop equipment, large glass windows, means of vertical circulation

Area Requirements Code compliance with TSA Standards and Chicago Transit Authority guidelines.

Ticketing TSA Offices

SPACE SUMMARY

Facts

Facts Ticketing stations can be automated and as simple as computer stations (similar to kiosks). Daily passes or weekly passes can be obtained. The ticketing area doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be as far from the concourse as the airside ticketing because security and baggage is not a personnel issue.

CENTRAL TERMINAL

METRA Ticketing

Goals Ticketing station will adopt the minimal requirements needed to get passengers on and off the METRA. It will act more as an information booth than a checking station.

Platform

Issues

Lounge/ Cafe

Centrality, openness

Area Requirements Waiting, queuing space, seating and tactile surfaces for visually impaired.

Ticket vending. Intercom system to alert of arriving METRA cars, communication with operations and security personnel.

Needs

SPACE SUMMARY

METRA LRT Ticketing

METRA Platform and Track Corridor

This area is dangerous and should be marked with clear signage and waiting areas. Light rail systems are unique in that passengers approach the platform perpindicular from the railcars. Therefore, the platforms are usually narrow and linear to collect riders. The corridor is a single 2 way track that can board next to or inside of the facility. The Platform is split on either side of the track for boarding and unloading of passengers from the cars. Waiting should be close enough to the tracks but far enough for safety and comfort.

METRA Ticketing

Platform

Goals

Approach, safety, visibility, noise

Needs Tactile surfaces, screening bars, signals, schedules and natural light

Area Requirements ADA accessibility, restrooms, sustainable integration

Issues

Lounge/ Cafe

To make the platform safe, integrated, and as environmentally sensitive as possible. The corridor and platform should be clearly accessible to all commuter needs.

SPACE SUMMARY

Facts

Kiosks, Lounge & Cafe

As sustainability is one of the facility goals, most of the retail activities on the grounds will be temporary installments that do not leave a permanent trace on the environment.

Goals To create recognizable, fully functional kiosks and recreation areas that cleverly integrate sustainable design concepts into consumer needs. Kiosks will act as both vending and informational centers.

Issues Mobility, scheduling, accessibility, variety

Needs Lounge areas, cafes, and kiosks need electronic capabilities, storage, and security if left alone. Storage for kiosks and patterns of rotation will need to be mapped out.

Area Requirements Adjacency to indoor and outdoor activities, covering, operator.

SPACE SUMMARY

Facts

Water taxi platforms and slips

The most sustainable form of vehicular traffic. The water taxis and tour boats cover various areas of the siteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perimeter. Slips will be used for longer storage of boats, and the platforms will be used for loading and unloading of passengers. These can be covered or open air.

Parking

Retail

Goals To create accessible movement on and off the site through waterway traffic. As well, the sense of boardwalk circulation should inspire a lively outdoor environment.

Issues

Safety, accessibility, fluidity

Ticketing Dining

Water Taxi Platforms

Needs Docking equipment, covered waiting areas (natural or built), signaling, schedules, kiosks, circulation for pedestrians, and tactile surfaces.

Area Requirements Open air transfer, lateral platforms, queuing stations, Burnham Harbor code compliance. Nature Trails

SPACE SUMMARY

Facts

Learning Center Classrooms

The classrooms will be transitions to the indoor/outdoor environment. Most times, the classes will be held on the grounds amongst the wildlife. Classes will need to be secured from potential hazards that children could encounter.

Goals To create areas where learning is attained through involvement and interaction. Encourage flexibility of space and transition of building’s “edge conditions.”

CENTRAL TERMINAL Short Term Parking

Offices

Check-In

Issues Safety, security, visibility, encroachment, accessibility, shelter

Learning Center

Needs Audio/Visual equipment, seating, study space, books, learning equipment, presentation space.

Area Requirements Should meet Chicago Building Code requirements for educational occupancy types as well as IBC and ADA standards. Adjacent to central information center and away from airfield, METRA platforms, and secluded areas.

Auditoriums

Nature Trails

SPACE SUMMARY

Facts

Business Center Conference Space and Auditorium

With incoming businessmen from O’Hare and Midway and weekday commuters from the Chicago region, the building will act as a field command center for those needing to “wire in” to their business remotely. The proximity to downtown and McCormick Place also place the need for flexible business space.

Auditorium

Support

Lounge

Conference

Goals To create options for corporate passengers to work in isolation or use conference spaces and schedule lecture/ events in the auditoriums. To link this with sustainable strategies in business through various techniques.

Conference

Business Center

Conference

Issues

Networking, privacy, capability, flexibility, technology

Needs Audio/Visual equipment, WI/FI, proper task lighting, private work stations, private gathering stations, business center and supply station, print center.

Area Requirements

Adjacent to both the airfield concourse and the METRA platform. Room for circulation and privacy. Adequate lighting and privacy screening. Openness to the both the public and private areas of the facility.

Terminals Shuttle Pick-Up

SPACE SUMMARY

Facts

Control Tower

With as much traffic as the terminals will see, security and organization is important and should be central to all operations. A security infrastructure will link clusters of the building to monitor both transportation issues and grounds conditions.

Goals

To create low-profile, but effective security stations. Offices should be accessible to those in need of reaching them, but private enough to ensure comfort for those visiting the station as non-commuters. Management and marketing personnel will be grouped closely to effectively encourage collaboration.

Issues Adjacency, privacy, connectivity, daylighting

Grounds

Administrative

Security

Needs Audio/Visual equipment, network connections, office supplies, printers, copiers, conference stations, conveying means, receptionist, lounge, private restrooms, parking, adequate lighting and ventilation, noise reduction.

Area Requirements

No Cubile Arrangements. Open floorplan. Consult IBC and Graphic Standards for Office requirements.

Terminals

Lounge

SPACE SUMMARY SPACE SUMMARY

General Administrative, Operations, and Security Stations

SPACE SUMMARY

Economic Analysis: Site Location- Chicago, IL/ Parks District Cost

Building Cost 189,228 sqft @ $250/sqft

= $47,307,000

Land Cost 480,000 sqft @ $150/sqft

= $72,000,000

Site Work $15,000,000 x 15%

= $2,250,000

Architectural Fees $15,000,000 x 9%

= $1,350,000

Construction Loan Cost $121,557,000 x 10%

= $12,155,700

Contengency Cost $15,000,000 x 8%

= $1,200,000

TOTAL COST

= $136,262,700

Income TOTAL INCOME 189,228 sqft @ $50/sqft

= $9,461,400/yr.

Payback $136,262,700/ $9,461,400

= 15 yrs.

Note: These figures reflect anticipated square footages up to the Preliminary Design Phase. Final square footages shown on boards.

SPACE SUMMARY

CONTEXT

3.1

Context_Introduction Northerly Island_ Northerly Island is a 91 acre manmade peninsula on the southern bank of Grant Park in Chicago, Illinois. Originally designed by Daniel Burnham as a string of parkscape along Lake Michigan (see right), it has seen a drastic cut in scale due to the cost of infill, labor, and available waterfront real-estate. In 1933, it was the site of the “Century of Progress” World’s Fair. (See image below) Envisioned by Burnham as one of the two manmade peninsulas along Chicago’s harbor, Northerly Island has some unique geographical and contextual conditions. It is home of many native species of prairie grasses and migratory birds.

World’s Fair 1933-1934_ The World’s Fair featured technologies in both the agricultural and transportational fields. Transportation was a central theme of the exhibition. It attracted nearly 2 million visitors in one year. Air, water, and rail transit acted as both a

means for taking visitors on and off the island, as well as a spectacle of revolutionary mystique. A secondary theme was the celebration of (and growing interest in) ecological specimens. From an early time, these two independent and even incongruous entities have been a part of Northerly Island’s makeup.

“As indicated by the color green on the original plan, the island was to be populated by trees and grass for the public enjoyment by all. However, drafted less than six years after the Wright brothers’ historic flight, the 1909 plan does not envision any airports for Chicago.” -Wikipedia article on Meigs Field1 Meigs Field_ In 1947, Meigs Field opened and quickly became the busiest single-runway airfield in the nation. The original runway was 3,895’x150,’ making it accessible only to small single engine aircraft. Northerly Island is owned by the Chicago Park District, however Meigs Field operated independently by the Chicago Department of Aviation until its controversial closing in 2003. On March 30, Mayor Richard Daley ordered a midnight crew of bulldozers to enter the private property and destroy the runway. Dozens of private airplanes were stranded and some unaware arrivals crashed once hitting the ransacked runway. It has sat dormant since. Some activist 1

Wikipedia, “Meigs Field”, accessed March 19, 2008.

Context_Introduction 77

groups, chiefly the “Friends of Meigs Field”, still petition for revitalization and awareness of the site.

The Museum District and Soldier Field_ Presently, Northerly Island is covered by overgrown grass patches and crumbled remnants of concrete swaths. Jogging trails, most of which are inadvertent and rugged, are the only connections of human involvement to the rest of the thriving museums and marina. To the north of the old runway sits the Adler Planetarium. It dots the busy boulevard, Solidarity Drive which passes by the undeniably famous Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum of Natural History. Tucked along the westernmost banks of the airfield is Burnham Harbor and the yacht club. Beyond that is Soldier Field, the recently refurbished home of “da Bears.”1 Pedestrian trails stretch along the entire rim of the nestled marina. They weave through the grasses and wildlife that have managed to survive on Northerly Island. The existing airport still stands (pictured right) although it is used for office space and storage, now. With so much potential, and existing infrastructure, the spirit of Meigs Field can be born anew. Acting as a central depot for commuters and incoming businessmen, a sensitive approach to the context of the area could serve as a good example to all. 1

colloquialism for the NFL franchise, the Chicago Bears.

Context_Introduction 78

Context_Site Plans

GRANT

Hutchinson Field

Adler Planetarium

PARK Shedd Aquarium

Adler Planetarium

The Field Museum

Soldier Field

McCormick Place

N McCormick Place

Wildlife and Vegitation_ Chicago is home to over 300 species of migratory songbirds.1 Northerly Island is a natural encounter for birds along the Mississippi Flyway path in the summer (see next page). The McCormick Place is responsible for the death of hundreds of birds every year2 as a result of its large glass facades and shady treelined shores. Rerouting them, by means of natural barriers, would help the population of the fly patterns. Regional shore-birds include ducks, gulls, loons, snipes, and kingfishers.3 As well, several types of fish occupy the waters around Northerly Island (all available for fishermen.) Coho Salmon, and Yellow Perch are the most plentiful.4 Native grasses such as savanna prairie and wildflowers are important to the breeding and foraging of birds and microecological species. Much of the grass on Northerly Island can be preserved and integrated into the transportation terminal. Opportunities for integration and exploration arise by addressing the sanctification of Northerly Island as an active part of Chicago’s community. 1 A Bird’s Eye View of the Migratory Bird Routes, “Chicago Bird Habitats,” http://www.cityofchicago.org/Environment/BirdMigration/sub/miss_flyway.html, Accessed Feb. 10, 2008. 2 “Chicago Bird Habitats” 3 “Chicago Bird Habitats” 4 “Chicago Bird Habitats”

Context_Ecology 80

* Rescuing an injured osprey on Northerly Island

Context_Ecology 81

Existing migratory flight pattern

Proposed alteration to flight pattern

Context_Neighboring Structures 82

Neighboring Structures_ Shedd Aquarium

The former Meigs Field shares close proximity with a wide range of structures. The Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum are fine examples of eclectic Beaux Arts mixed with Greek and Roman form. Soldier Field has undergone a hyper-techtonic transformation as it mixes Greek porticos with orbiting metal disks. The megastructure convention hall known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The McCormick Placeâ&#x20AC;? is clearly in contrast to the smaller Adler Planetarium and existing airfield. The site, as well is at the crossroads of a series of parks and trails that covers the lakefront into downtown, the Museum District, and Soldier Field.

Adler Planetarium

Field Museum

Soldier Field Burnham Park Yacht Club

McCormick Place

Soldier Field

Museum District

Parks and Trails

decommissioned airfield structures

Context_Neighboring Structures 83

Adler Planetarium_ The Adler Planetarium was built in 1930. It was one of the first planetariums built in the western hemisphere. It houses an auditorium, observatory, star-gazing terraces, interactive facilities, children’s programs, solariums, and museums. The architect, Ernest Grunsfeld, purposefully made sure that the building was modest (it is reputed as being the least attractive of the “Big Three” Museums in the area) but create a learning experience far more valuable than worldly aesthetic could achieve.

Shedd Aquarium_ Designed by Graham, Anderson, Probst & White in 1933, the Shedd Aquarium has seen two major additions to the original structure, known as “Neptune’s Temple.” The attached fanned amphitheatre holds much of the aquarium’s shows and animal presentations. 25’ underground sits another 27,000 exhibit that holds marine life from many ecosystems from around the world. The exterior is chiefly constructed of white Georgian marble for the rotunda and glass along the lakeside. It covers 440,000 square feet. It’s highest point is just over 70’ and uses a soybean roof.

Context_Neighboring Structures 84

Field Museum of Natural History_ The Field Museum is the most popular cultural attraction in the city. It was originally part of the Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Columbian Exhibition in 1893. Since, it has undergone major restoration and expansion. Along with dozens of other exhibits, the museum houses a collection of early transportation, including rail, air, and water powered vehicles. The museum is built in Beaux Arts fashion and covers just under 400,000 square feet of lakefront property.

Soldier Field_ Soldier Field is the smallest of all NFL stadiums, holding 61,500. It officially opened in 1924 and was named for the American soldiers who had died in combat. Doric columns create a portico around the outside of the stadium. The newest addition in 2003 added glass bowls above the columns which dip and soar at undulating heights. It has received both praise and disdain at local and national levels.

Context_Neighboring Structures 85

McCormick Place_ The largest convention center in the United States. It is now a collection of exposition complexes clustered around Burnham Harbor’s entrance. The original building was constructed of heavy trusses and glass curtain walls (which have been deadly to birds thinking it is a forest.) The glass face along the waterfront is relatively low profile and not used as much as its landbound additions.

Burnham Park Yacht Club_ The yacht club is a modest building along the marina’s interior. Inside, members can eat at the restaurant, track current sailing conditions, or purchase equipment from the store. It is roughly 10,000-15,000 square feet. Red brick walls and a 1960’s influenced roofing structure.

Context_Circulation Patterns 86

Bus/Shuttle System (existing)_ Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bus and shuttle system operates under the Chicago Transit Authority and has vehicles that service the Museum District 24 hours a day. Busses cary groups to and from the CBD to the museums along Solidarity Drive, while shuttles run from the McCormick Center through Soldier Field to drop off businessmen and commuters. Currently, the busses do not stretch down S. Lynn White Rd. (which accesses Northerly Island and the abandoned airport.) Taxi service, however, will take you there.1

1 Telephone conversation with Tisha Sanders, operator for 1-800-TAXICAB in Chicago, Ill. March 25, 2008.

Solidarity Drive

S. Lynn White Rd.

Context_Circulation Patterns 87

Air traffic (proposed)_ While no air traffic has occured after 2003, the site is still primed for re-construction of a smaller runway that could provide for both alleviation from overcrowded O’Hare and Midway airports outside of town as well as more accessibility to Chicago’s commercial and cultural center. Air traffic is the only transportation type that deals with severe change in altitude and vertical congestion. Meig’s operates as a 18/36 type runway, meaning that planes can take off either going southbound (180°) or northbound (360°) alternating in single patterns.1 Because of the size of the runway (3895’x150’), only small single engine aircraft and hybrid engine corporate jets (HCJ’s) can use the runway.

1 Interview with Dr. Jerald Sherer. Grandfather and retired pilot living in Jasper, AL. March 29, 2008.

Context_Circulation Patterns 88

Pedestrian/Bicycle (existing)_ The shores of the marina are networked with running and biking trails that sit anywhere from 1’ to 6’ above the water line. Trails extend on through the museum district and into Grant Park. Chicago is an unusually healthy city, with residents eager to use the outdoor beauty as a backdrop for exercise and leisure. Most paths along the water are shaded by trees and concrete paved. Grass buffers seperate them from the marina, and a 15’ seawalls seperate them from the lake.1

Data collected from photographs of the area.

Context_Circulation Patterns 89

Water-locked (existing)_ Burnham Harbor has 1120 docks and mooring stations. The marina is a very peaceful and quiet area for both the water savvy and the nature inclined. In the summer, sailboats speckle the waters and provide for attractive scenery. Yachts that park in the slips become exhibition pieces for those walking the shore. Sailboat mast heights are not to exceed 30’ as a local provision. The yacht club is just on the other side of the marina, at the narrowest gap between Northerly Island and mainland. Water taxis take museum goers to and from Navy Pier (about 1.3 miles north of Northerly Island). Oftentimes, antique sailboats and pirate ships will dock along the harbor to showcase true nautical character and offer rides to tourists. Party barges depart from Navy Pier, where guests dine on larger boats that travel far enough out on Lake Michigan to frame the entire Chicago skyline. The only beach along Chicago’s waterfront is on Northerly Island, just south of the Adler Planetarium. It is protected from water traffic and gets no deeper than 12’

Context_Circulation Patterns 90

“L” and METRA Light Rail (existing)_ The “L” (often times called the “El” or the “Elevated Rail”) runs along South Lakeshore Drive at its closest point to Northerly Island. It is the oldest rapid transit system in the city and accesses most all of downtown Chicago. At the closest hub to Northerly Island, the L is located 35’ above the lake height. This is still, however, below street level because of the way that Lakeshore Drive cuts through Soldier Field.

0’ Not to scale

+6’, 8’

Jogging Paths

S. Lakeshore Drive

Yacht Club

+10’

S. Museum Campus Dr.

+35’ +25’

The “L” & METRA

Purple- The L Pink- The Metra

Context_Circulation Patterns 91

Composite shows the crossing of the aforementioned transit types. A noticable cluster of stops and depots are situated right between the McCormic Center and Soldier Field. Sequential layers of travel bisect the lakeside, each at different elevations, speeds, and durations.

Context_Site Analysis 92

Geography

Context_Site Analysis 93 GRANT

Geography

Hutchinson Field

PARK Shedd Aquarium

As stated before, the site undergoes two major changes in elevation: The first is the apparent change between the harbor and the edge of Northerly Island, the second is the broader change in elevations between Northerly Island and Soldier Field. The latter being crucial in addressing offsite circulation. The site itself does not change elevation by any difference greater than 4’. Much of the soil on the island is a product of the clayey glacial till from thousands of years ago. The upper 3’ is composed chiefly of loam.1 1 From vPlants, “Why focus on the Chicago region?”, www. vplants.org. Accesed March 29, 2008.

Section B: by author

Section A: proposed Parks & Planes Museum, from Friends of Meigs Field

Adler Planetarium

The Field Museum

section A

Soldier Field

section B McCormick Place

Context_Site Analysis 94

Geography

10.5

x 10.5

x 8.8 x

10.0

x 9.5

Context_Site Analysis 95

Climate Chicago is known for its freezing winters and windy summer days. The charts below will describe the amount of sun and rain that the site will be exposed to on an average annual basis. Temperatures range from the 20â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the winter to the 70â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the summer. Chicago averages 84 clear days out of the year.

Context_Site Analysis 96

Climate GRANT Hutchinson Field

PARK Shedd Aquarium

Adler Planetarium

20 18

The Field Museum

10 12

Soldier Field

Winter winds come off the lake much stronger than the summer breezes. The illustration above shows the predominant directions of wind and intensity (in mph.)

McCormick Place

Context_Site Analysis 97

Climate

The following report was generated by Climate Consultant 3, a piece of software designed by UCLA to determine multivariate conditions about the climate of certain regions. All readings are in reference to Midway International Airport (9.1 miles southwest of Northerly Island.)

Context_Site Analysis 98