2014_UMN MLA Capstone- Schiebe: RIVER REFLEX, Mankato, MN

River Reflex

River Reflex Rethinking Mankato’s Relationship with the Majestic and Manic Minnesota River

a project by

Michael Schiebe Master’s of Landscape Architecture University of Minnesota Graduate Capstone Project College of Design - 2014

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A special thank you goes out to the following individuals who have helped, guided, and supported me through such a rewarding process.

Matthew Tucker

Stefano Ascari

Mikey Eljera

Joseph Favour

Kevin Belair

Lynne Schiebe

Carissa Schively Slotterback

Elissa Brown

Darrick Schiebe

Rebecca Krinke

Stephanie Erwin

Megan Schiebe

Vince deBritto

Steve Foss

& Mickey

Craig Wilson

Erin Garnaas-Holmes

Kristine Miller

Solange Guillaume

Jonathan Blaseg

Montana Harinsuit

Laura Musacchio

Amber Hill

David Pitt

Stephen Himmerich

John Koepke

Matthew Kessler David Kowen Emily Osthus Michael Richardson Ryan Ruttger

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Contents INTRODUCTION

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Project Statement

11

Intersection of Change

13

City of Mankato

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The Minnesota River

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SITE ISSUES

Lyverse, Mary. Kasota Prairie, charcoal, graphite, and watercolor on panel, 2007.

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Flood Protection

51

Old Town Renewal

57

Habitat Restoration

65

River Access + Connections

71

DESIGN PROPOSAL

81

Site Design

83

Design Strategy and Phasing

91

Elm Street Gateway

95

Kasota Riverwalk

107

Hubbard Plaza

117

LITERATURE

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Research Materials

132

Bibliography

134

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Introduction Project Statement Intersection of Change City of Mankato The Minnesota River

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PROJECT STATEMENT The City of Mankato’s flood protection system has dramatically reduced physical and visual connections to the Minnesota River.

Over the past century, river cities have undertaken drastic transitions in form and function due to the evolution of industry and technology, growth

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of urban sprawl, and construction of flood management systems. What was

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once a harmonious - albeit, risky - relationship between river and city has

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now evolved into a controlled and mitigating stance towards keeping the natural force - the water - at bay. The constriction and control of the natural

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river system has brought about hydrologic and ecologic concerns felt hundreds of miles downstream. River and urban systems once inextricably connected have become isolated and independent, leading to worries that river-based communities are forging ahead without their founding asset the river.

I am proposing an alternative approach in which the river and urban systems can coexist in a resilient and mutually-beneficial fashion.

This project aims to reconnect Mankato with the Minnesota River, rejuvenate habitat and riverine conditions, and bring about the historic district’s economic revitalization. With more resilient infrastructure design, the city can protect itself from flooding events without compromising beneficial public riverfront space and access.

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The rock’s way of staying... is different from the way of living things.

The rock, we may say, resists change;

it stays put, unchanging.

The living thing transcends change either by correcting change or changing itself to meet change or by

incorporating change into its own being.

-Gregory Bateson

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We can look at change from that of the natural system, such as a river with such tremendous variability and seasonal transformation, in a state of constant flux.

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Or we can examine change from that of the city, with decades of historic legacy built from shifting industrial, transportation, and settlement patterns. Within both the natural and the urban, change has always been embedded into the places we inhabit and the way we live.

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The intersection of the river and the city is the epitome of constant change, a reflection of our long-standing attitude that the city, as it grows and develops, will remain the rock. The river, on the other hand, tends to be controlled as to benefit the human environment. The balance between these two systems is crucial, yet it seems that we have yet to

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fully acknowledge the river’s current role in urban resilience.

All images courtesy of AYTCH, Urban & Regional Studies Institute at MSU Mankato

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Eastman, Seth. Minnesota River Valley, etching, c. 1845.

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CITY OF MANKATO Mankato, Minnesota is a great example of this relationship, in which cities have developed and grown around a river, even as needs and societal pressures have shifted. Mankato is situated on the Minnesota River in the south-central portion of the state.

Mankato is located about seventy miles southwest of the Twin Cities.

Mankato has a population of 39,309, making it the fourth largest city outside

Mississippi River

the Minneapolis - St. Paul metropolitan area. Together with the city of North Mankato, which is situated on the northwest side of the river, the population

Twin Cities

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of the two cities equates to 52,678 as of 2012.

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Mankato

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HISTORICAL CONDITIONS Mankato, one of the state’s oldest cities, was founded in 1852 just three years after the Minnesota Territory was formed. As the fur trade declined during this time, Minnesotans rushed to the area to lay claim on the opening of the Dakota lands to settlement due to the result of 1851 cession treaties by four Dakota bands. This land rush concentrated on Mankato, among other regional nodes, because of its site characteristics that could be well-used as a steamboat port. Steam boating from St. Paul was the most technologically-advanced means of transportation until 1868, in which the St. Paul and Sioux City Railroad reached Mankato for the first time.

00Image courtesy of AYTCH, Urban & Regional Studies Institute at MSU Mankato

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INDUSTRIAL LEGACY Soon after the initial land rush brought Minnesotans to Mankato, business and industry followed. By the advent of the Civil War in 1861, the city’s principal export was wheat. Although agricultural practices would begin to shift towards a more diversified system, wheat - along with dairying, livestock production, corn, and oats - would become mainstays in the region.

In 1868, the railroad reached Mankato and changed the city’s transportation network and status as a regional node forever. During the first phase of the Industrial Revolution from 1868 to 1900, the city grew rapidly due to a massive influx of people to the area, with population increasing from about 3,000 to 11,000. By the beginning of the 20th century, the principal businesses in Mankato were flour milling, brewing, railroading, and stone quarrying. Although the scope and vitality has changed, these principal industries are still present in Mankato today.

All images courtesy of AYTCH, Urban & Regional Studies Institute at MSU Mankato

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All images courtesy of AYTCH, Urban & Regional Studies Institute at MSU Mankato.

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Hwy 169

NORTH MANKATO

Design Site

Minnesota River

MANKATO

Blue Earth River

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Le Sueur River

5 miles

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The core of Mankato is based around two main districts – Downtown and Old Town. Adjacent land uses include the Washington Park

Industrial Sector Riverfront Park

residential neighborhood, industrial sector, and a pair of large parks which bookend the core of the center city. The red shape outlines the design site I have been examining for this project.

Old Town Washington Park Neighborhood

Minnesota River

Downtown

Sibley Park Union Pacific

Hwy 169 500’

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riv e

Hwy 169

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Central Business District

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Commercial

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Heavy Industrial Office Residential High Density Residential Medium Density Residential W

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Low Density Residential

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Park + Open Space Public + Semi-Public Open Space

LAND USE There exists a compaction of land uses within Old Town, especially surrounding the Heavy Industrial corridor along the riverfront. This presents a challenge when designing more efficient integration and connection between uses. The site I will be focusing on is a combination of Park and Open Space, Heavy Industrial, Central Business District, Office Residential, and Commercial.

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Old Town Downtown

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THE MINNESOTA RIVER Stretching for 335 miles from the Minnesota/North Dakota border before emptying into the Mississippi River at Fort Snelling near St. Paul, the Minnesota River is the quintessential state river. The Minnesota River

Red River

watershed covers nearly 17,000 square miles over four states, with over 14,000 square miles located within the Minnesota state boundary. The entirety of the Minnesota River Basin is located within the Mississippi River Basin, eventually emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. Due to its location

Mississippi River

between the Red River to the north and the Mississippi River to the east, the Minnesota River Basin is of vital importance to the hydrologic and ecologic

Twin Cities

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health of both its own waters as well as surrounding watersheds.

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Mankato

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at 335 miles long, the Minnesota River is

the state’s

LARGEST TRIBUTARY to the Mississippi River

of Minnesota’s water

20%

However, 92% of the watershed’s land is devoted to AGRICULTURE

RUNOFF POLLUTION SEDIMENTATION

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Clarity (in cm)

the Minnesota River Basin drains

80 60

Lake Superior RB St. Croix RB Upper Mississippi RB Lower Mississippi RB Minnesota River Basin

40 20 0 1999

2006

Water Clarity Trends (2009)

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1881

A HISTORY OF FLOODING The cities of Mankato and North Mankato have experienced catastrophic flooding throughout the past century and a half. The Minnesota River would almost annually overflow its banks within city limits, creating a harsh reality

1951

for the two communities to deal without proper means of sustaining a riverfront district in lieu of flooding. Federal funding for a flood protection program was sought after the 1951 flood, but political delays left the two communities vulnerable to flooding while funds were gathered. In 1965, another major flooding event prompted immediate federal assistance.

Shortly thereafter, the Army Corps of Engineers began the nearly thirty-year construction project of levees and flood walls that exist today. It was not until the project completion in 1989 that the threat of flooding had been fully

1965

contained.

Mankato Free Press.

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100,000

increased PEAK

1965

FLOODING

2010

50,000

1951

0

cubic feet per second (cfs)

1881

Minnesota River at Mankato Annual Peak Streamflow 1881-2013 (Source: USGS)

A FUTURE OF FLOODING With a system of flood walls and levees in place, the city of Mankato has been protected from high flood waters since 1989. However, the occurrence and severity of these flood events has increased in recent years - with many attributing the rise to upstream land practices and the ominous signs of climate change.

During the spring of 2010 and 2011, the Minnesota River crested to heights of 25’ and 28’, respectively, in downtown Mankato. Although the high water level was still ten feet below the top of the flood wall, the increasing occurrence of flood events is worrisome. Precipitation in the form of heavy rainfall is expected to increase more than 66% in the coming decades, as stated by the Union of Concerned Scientists. Along with more rapid thaw of snowmelt upstream, the amount of water surging downstream is increasing every year. Although the Mankato flood wall can withstand a 500-year flood event, the very system that is protecting the city is also pushing the river away and funneling its forces further downstream.

This massive infrastructure project has successfully protected the city from flooding events for nearly three decades. However, the flood wall is actually

2010

causing more harm than good.

Mankato Free Press.

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Site Issues Flood Protection Old Town Renewal Habitat Restoration River Access + Connections

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Riverfront Park

Kasota Stone Site

Site Issues

FLOOD PROTECTION

Old Town Washington Park Neighborhood

OLD TOWN RENEWAL

North Mankato

HABITAT RESTORATION r

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RIVER ACCESS + CONNECTIONS

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Downtown

The “Hilltop”

0.25 mi

0.5 mi

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FLOOD PROTECTION Mankato’s reliance on static flood protection infrastructure has put strain on the city’s adaptation to more resilient and reflexive flood control technologies. The current flood wall that runs the length of downtown protects the city from 500-year flood events, but is purely one-dimensional in that it responds to no other critical systems – the natural and social ones included.

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784’

Flood Wall

784’

500 Year Flood

January

December

1993

778’

100 Year Flood

770’

Flood Stage (NWS)

762’

Seasonal High

There is need for flood protection, however. The Minnesota River fluctuates wildly on an annual basis, with the normal yearly bounce around 12 feet. This hydrograph displays annual river levels in downtown Mankato over the past decade. As you can see, the river surges to high levels in the spring, and drops to low levels in the fall and winter. The highest flood on record was recorded in 1993, which is currently the 100-year flood mark.

750’

Seasonal Low

designing for the “typical” flood

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What happens if the flood wall were removed?

If no flood protection measures were in place in downtown Mankato, high

500 Yr Flood 100 Yr Flood (1993) Seasonal High River Seasonal Low River Historic Structure

400’

flood waters would surely wreck havoc. The analysis map on the opposite page explores this scenario, showing a 500 year flood event reaching far into Old Town. Through site-specific analysis, it is clear that flood protection is indeed needed in Mankato. However, the form and function of protection needs to be developed further to provide a wider range of benefits.

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Riverfront Park

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Sibley Park

Flood Wall + Levee System

Stretching through much of the city, the levee and flood wall system has had a lasting impression in more ways than one. Despite protecting the city from the 500 year flood event, the wall has forever altered the relationship between Mankato and the Minnesota River.

500’

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OLD TOWN RENEWAL Old Town - Mankato’s historic district - is composed of an aging industrial sector and smaller-scale retail and residential land uses. Mankato Iron and Metal, seen here in this image, is a scrap metal recycling company, which – like other businesses in the district – no longer rely on the river for transportation or power.

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MANUFACTURING 1

Industries and manufacturing businesses within the project site include: 1 Kasota Stone Roughly 27.5 acres in size, it is located just to the east of Riverfront Park across the rail line. The company recently went out of

2

business this past year and the site is in limbo in terms of future ownership and development. The site has previously acted as a quarry, manufacturing, and storage area for limestone operations.

2 Dotson Iron Castings Established in 1871, Dotson primarily constructs 3

iron cores and molds in a variety of finishings. They recently upgraded their facility to expand operations and occupy about 5 acres of land adjacent to the rail line and Riverfront Park.

3 Mankato Iron and Metal Established in 1972, Mankato Iron and Metal is a It occupies 9.5 acres between the floodwall and rail line, in between Old Town and the Minnesota River.

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locally-owned and operated business dealing with scrap metal and recycling.

4 Cargill Most notable for its iconic flour mill, Cargill sits on the rail line next to the river at the southern terminus of Old Town. It is a joint venture with Horizon Milling and is one of the key users of the rail within the site

4

boundaries. The flour mill itself dates back to the late nineteenth century and is an iconic historic structure that is highly visible when visiting Mankato.

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$0-$200K $200K - $500K $500K - $1,000K $1,000K - $5,000K $5,000K Vacant + Transition Surface Parking

Riverfront Drive, on which many of the city’s historic buildings are located, has seen its share of better days. With the city focusing new design within downtown, Old Town has been tasked to showcase its historic legacy without added investment. The analysis map on the opposite page details the opportunity to rejuvenate the district through the acquisition and/or redevelopment of vacant and inexpensive parcels. The entire Old Town district is in need of a boost - economically, culturally, and socially.

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HABITAT RESTORATION Because of the flood wall and rip rap installed along the banks of the Minnesota River, the loss of native floodplain forests and riparian vegetation has limited the amount of viable habitat for avian and aquatic species over the past fifty years.

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15’-20’

Existing Site Shoreline Condition

VIABLE HABITAT RIVER

MUDFLAT

POOR HABITAT RIPRAP

FLOOD WALL

MANUFACTURING LAND USE

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1889 MN River 1938 MN River 1951 MN River 1938 Floodplain Forest 2014 Floodplain Forest

Historically, the Minnesota River flowed naturally through Mankato without any large-scale infrastructure protection. The analysis map on the opposite page displays the historic riverbed in 1889, 1938, and 1951 as well as a more extensive floodplain forest regime that once occupied the riverbanks. The current river alignment is called out by the dark blue lines.

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RIVER ACCESS + CONNECTIONS The current flood protection system has also dramatically reduced pedestrian access between Mankato and the Minnesota River. Although a trail brings users along the river’s edge, manufacturing land use, the rail, and the flood wall have strongly deterred any riverfront program and access.

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FLOOD WALL + LEVEE SYSTEM RAIL + INDUSTRY VISUAL ACCESS PHYSICAL ACCESS

Flood Wall + Levee System Industrial Land Use Physical Access Visible Access

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RAIL SYSTEM Rail infrastructure sets a difficult barrier for accessing the Minnesota River.

With the advent of increased rail traffic, it is prudent for any river connection strategies to mitigate the effects of the rail system barrier by providing

Rail System

access above and around the rail tracks.

The rail system runs through downtown Mankato along the river and ushers about 10-20 trains per day. The Union Pacific owns the line, although the DM&E railroad also uses the tracks daily.

The use of the rail system is continuing to grow and is expected to increase in the coming decades. Shipping of agricultural goods and coal is escalating in addition to the numerous industries that have traditionally used the rail for service (processing, mining, manufacturing). The prospect of commuter rail reaching Mankato is also a possibility. The Minnesota Comprehensive Statewide Freight and Passenger Rail Plan states a Minnesota Valley Line running southwest from the Twin Cities is a Phase I corridor opportunity.

500’

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RIVERFRONT PARK In addition to a lack of access to the river, the missing connection link between Riverfront Park and Downtown is one key issue at stake.

Riverfront Park, designed by Damon Farber Associates and Paulsen Architects, is a relatively new city park that sits just north of the proposed site along the Minnesota River. Completed in 2007, the 14-acre Riverfront Park provides some access to the river as well as a gathering space for large

Riverfront Park

events. The city prides the park on being able to generate more access and connections to the river, although there are deficiencies regarding its site location, accessibility, and year-round programming.

Downtown

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DOWNTOWN MANKATO The downtown district, with plentiful amenities in which the city is heavily investing, is lacking adequate river access and a strong connection to Riverfront Park.

With all these issues in mind, it becomes apparent that the intersection of river and city is much more complicated than one might think. Although infrastructure has reduced the risk of flooding in the city, Mankato’s flood

Riverfront Park

wall has without a doubt been a literal and figurative barrier between residents and the Minnesota River. So what can we do? How can design begin to initiate access and connections to the Minnesota River, restore shoreline habitat, and revitalize the Old Town district while still protecting the city from peak flooding events?

Downtown

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Design Proposal Site Design Design Strategy and Phasing Elm Street Gateway Kasota Riverwalk Hubbard Plaza

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SITE DESIGN River Reflex aims to reconnect the city and river through an abundance of connections and design strategies. What if the flood wall were replaced by a redesigned shoreline condition? What if we were able to bring residents down to the riverfront and give multiple ways for people to access the space and explore a renewed riverfront? This view looks toward Cargill Mill and downtown Mankato and re-imagines the riverfront of the city as a place of vibrant and active use, while allowing the river ample opportunity to expand and grow within a natural riparian system.

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FLOOD PROTECTION

OLD TOWN RENEWAL

HABITAT RESTORATION

Mankato’s reliance on static and outdated flood protection infrastructure has put strain on the city’s adaptation to more resilient and reflexive flood control technologies.

The economic development, social awareness, and commercial importance of Mankato’s historic Old Town district has remained stagnant over the past two decades.

By reforming the existing flood wall and levee system, the bounds of flood protection is pushed further into the urban context, allowing a more natural and interactive floodplain environment. The Minnesota River Trail, at an elevation of 785 feet, provides a continual line of defense from a 500 year flood event.

An interactive and programmed riverfront, highlighted by the newly-relocated Blue Earth County Historical Society and Hubbard Plaza, will aid in attracting residents and visitors to Old Town. Mankato should take advantage of this new riverfront development to showcase the Hubbard Mill, Cargill grain elevators, and railroad to communicate its industrial legacy and growth as a city over time.

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The banks of the Minnesota River in downtown Mankato are devoid of any viable riparian habitat.

The current flood protection system has dramatically reduced pedestrian access between Mankato and the Minnesota River.

Loss of floodplain forests and riparian vegetation has limited the number of native aquatic and avian species that would normally occupy the riverbank. River Reflex calls for a restoration of the river’s edge, construction of wing dams to provide a more natural riverbed and aquatic habitat, and an influx of native vegetation for avian species - all within a larger scheme to reconnect the missing habitat corridor from Riverfront Park to Sibley Park.

When physical and visual access is taken away, the city loses a piece of its heritage and pedestrian appeal. The Elm Street Gateway highlights an essential access procession to the river, with ample room for recreation and passive activity. The Kasota Riverwalk connects Riverfront Park with downtown Mankato through an enhanced and exciting trail system that allows residents and visitors a unique and seasonally-varied experience on the banks of the Minnesota River.

Old Town

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RIVER ACCESS + CONNECTIONS

Riverfront Park

Downtown

Hwy 169

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ACTIVE + PASSIVE

Active Program Passive Program

SITE ALTERATIONS

Flood Wall Displacement Flood Wall Alteration Cut Fill

RIVER FLEX

EVENT SPACE

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500 Year Flood Event : 784’ 100 Year Flood Event : 778’ Seasonal High River Level : 762’ Seasonal Low River Level : 750’

Primary Event Space Secondary Event Space

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Riverfront Park

Dotson

x785’

River+Rail-Viewing Landform

Public Lawn

x795’

x790’

River Access Ramp

The site sits between Riverfront Park to the north, and downtown Mankato

Southern Terrace Forest

Hwy 169 x766’

er

to the south. The site boundary to the east is located on Riverfront Drive in

Riverfront Park and downtown.

x791’

Flood Trails EL

Minnes

• Multiple trail systems to connect people to the river as well as between

Pedestrian Connection

x772’

ota Riv

Old Town. This design is based on providing:

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ST

x780’

BECHS + Parking

• Access points to the river itself, highlighted by the Elm Street Gateway.

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Pedestrian Walkway

site, such as defined public plaza spaces and programmed buildings. The

SP

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• Old Town renewal by using infill development and program located on

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ST

VE

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Blue Earth County Historical Society would be relocated to a new building

Hubbard Mill

x784’

• Restoring the natural floodplain forests and habitat to the riverfront.

Cargill Mill

PL

Connection from VMB to MN River Trail

M

Reconciliation Park

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AI

UM

HI

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AS

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2N

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Hubbard Plaza

TO

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opportunity to explore Mankato’s rich historical legacy within walking

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within Old Town, giving residents and visitors an up-close and personal distance of its most notable landmarks.

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Future Development (2015) UL

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Blue Earth County Library N

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(60 permanent + 42 overflow)

x779’

Floodplain Forest

RO

Parking 102 spaces

Rental + Cafe

100’

89

ST

DESIGN STRATEGY A large portion of the design is based around removing and reforming the existing flood wall. By pushing the flood barrier back to the Minnesota River Trail, space is opened up for natural vegetation and shoreline conditions.

The form of the street grid is extended from Old Town to the river, either through direct access or by carrying the geometries to various observation decks on the Riverwalk. The river edge is transformed to create a more natural and viable habitat for aquatic species, as well as provide a unique and adventurous riverfront experience for site users.

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Reforming the Wall

Extending the Grid

Transforming the Edge

Constructing the Form

Creating the Path

Restoring the Forest

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PHASING With regards to phasing of this project, it can be expected that it will take at

PHASE 1

PHASE 2

PHASE 3

Old Town Revitalization Year 0-2

Industry Reshift Year 0-5

Constructing the Spine Year 5-6

PHASE 4

PHASE 5

PHASE 6

Program Initiation Year 6

Excavation Year 6-7

Site Development Year 7-10

least five years for construction of the design to begin. During the formative years, a few businesses will shift to the Kasota Stone site, just north of this design area. The Blue Earth County Historical Society will relocate to Old Town and help in creating a more viable pedestrian district. Once the space is cleared, a reformed Minnesota River Trail will form the spine of the site. Excavation of material can then begin to occur, with a majority of the fill being transferred into a new landform on the northern end of the site.

Once excavation is complete, the rest of the project can be constructed and developed to give way to a redefined and re-imagined public riverfront space for the City of Mankato.

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ELM STREET GATEWAY P1

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P2 3a 2b P1

1b

2a 1a

3b

ELM STREET GATEWAY The Elm Street Gateway forms the primary circulation and design axis of the site. Developed as a continuation of Elm Street in Old Town, the Gateway ramp acts as the most direct and accessible means of reaching the banks of the Minnesota River. In today’s current context, the flood wall and levee system restricts any riverfront access or connections, save for a narrow, steep ramp near Riverfront Park. The Elm Street Gateway, however, vastly increases visual and physical access to the Minnesota River. In conjunction with the Gateway ramp, a newly built watercraft rental building with adjoining cafe space will bring recreation opportunities even closer to the riverfront. In addition to becoming a needed connector piece between Riverfront Park and downtown, the Elm Street Gateway encourages residents to explore and experience the Minnesota River waterfront.

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776

778 x780’

780

782

x795’

784

786

Public Lawn + River Observation

788

761’ BWx

x790’ TW

River Access Ramp

Minnesota River Trail

Minnesota River

794 792 790 x787’ TW

Pedestrian Boardwalk

x779’ TW

788

x779’

x791’

748

Rental + Cafe

x770’

~4,800 s.f.

750 x761’ BW

x773’

x764’ TW

752 754 756 758 760 762

Flood Trails

764 766

768

770 780 782 772

774

x779’

x781’ 784

20’

786

99

NORMAL

River

The diagrams on the opposite page show the Normal, 100 year, and 500 year flood events at this location. As you can see, it will be possible for Elm Street Gateway to be flooded in a 500 year flood event if it ever occurs.

100 YR

This section elevation below also shows inundation potential, again showing

Flood

the gradual balance between the river and the urban edge. As residents and visitors frequent the space in spring, peak river flooding will most likely encroach on the entry plaza itself. The fall months - with normal low water levels - will allow users to descend to the low reaches of the riverbank.

x787’ x785’ TW x780’

1b

x775’ x774’

1a

Active

Active

500 YR

Floodplain

Flood

20’

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101

x789’

2a x779’

4’-0”

18” 18” 18”

2b

Poured Concrete Steps Active

Existing Concrete Flood Wall

Passive Parking + Event Space

Southern Terrace Forest

20’

Concrete Slab Paving 2” Thick 2’-0”

6”

Compacted Base 6” Thick

The primary access ramp to the Minnesota River via the Elm Street Gateway

Compacted Soil Base

allows residents and visitors an experience unlike any in the city. A gradual procession to the riverfront, a beginning gateway illustrated in the section elevation above, uses a tandem ramp and stairway combination that incorporates the existing and altered concrete flood wall. The entire ramp portion shown below, at thirty feet wide, is well equipped to handle large groups of kayakers, canoers, and paddle-boarders.

4’-0”

Existing Concrete Flood Wall

One key feature of the Elm Street Gateway access ramp is the ability to be

Concrete Pavers 2.5” Thick 1

12

inundated with water on a seasonal basis. This ability reflects the ideals of

8%

the design initiative to instill a greater sense of “river reflex” to the site. As Sand Leveling Course 0.5 - 1.5” Thick Filter Fabric Compacted Base 6” Thick Compacted Soil Base

residents and visitors frequent the space in spring, peak river flooding will most likely encroach on the entry plaza itself. The late fall months - with normal low water levels - will allow users to descend to the low reaches of the riverbank. This experiential variability gives Mankato a truly unique and

5’

transformative riverfront.

x795’

x790’ TW x783’

x779’

500 Year Flood 784’

3b

100 Year Flood 778’

Seasonal High 762’

x762’

Seasonal Low 750’

3a

Passive

Active

Rail

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In conjunction with the Gateway ramp, a newly built watercraft rental building with adjoining cafe space will bring recreation opportunities even closer to the riverfront. Bent River Outfitters, a watercraft rental business currently located in Old Town, could be relocated to this space so that users would be able to rent out kayaks, test out various equipment, and have plentiful storage right at the river’s edge. The café space within this same building would provide a needed pit stop for bikers, kayakers, and canoers, as well as give residents a great spot to grab a quick lunch or warm coffee during the work week. Subtle grade changes and a bosque of trees direct views toward the Cargill Mill and far hillside, again emphasizing Mankato’s unique physical context.

In addition to becoming a needed connector piece between Riverfront Park and downtown, the Elm Street Gateway gives Mankato a truly unique and transformative riverfront space that encourages residents to explore and experience the Minnesota River waterfront.

RENTAL + CAFE KASOTA RIVERWALK MN RIVER TRAIL

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KASOTA RIVERWALK P3

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1a

KASOTA RIVERWALK 1b The Kasota Riverwalk, which stretches the length of the design site, consists

P4

of a series of trail systems aimed to reconnect residents and visitors with the P3

Minnesota River through a variety of experiences that change on a monthly and yearly basis. The existing Minnesota River Trail now forms the backbone of the site, almost entirely situated at an elevation above the 500 year flood mark. A pedestrian boardwalk runs adjacent to the Minnesota River Trail and will function as the more passive and leisurely mode of traversing the site. Closer to the river sits a set of Flood Trails, depicted in the perspective view above. Constructed of reclaimed concrete from the previous flood wall, these Flood Trails encourage a more adventurous and intriguing experience, all the while at nature’s whim to be inundated during peak flood events in the wet spring months.

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Southern Terrace Forest

Floodplain

744

Species

Cover

Silver Maple Acer saccharinum Cottonwood Populus deltoides American Elm ‘New Harmony’ Ulmus americana Hackberry Celtis occidentalis Swamp White Oak Quercus bicolor

••••• •••• •• •• •••

Red Elm Ulmus rubra Basswood Tilia americana American Elm ‘New Harmony’ Ulmus americana Hackberry Celtis occidentalis Black Maple Acer nigrum

••• ••• ••• ••• ••

Ontario aster Symphyotrichum ontarionis Mad dog skullcap Scutellaria lateriflora Touch-me-not Impatiens spp.

Tall coneflower Rudbeckia laciniata Kidney-leaved buttercup Ranunculus abortivus

• • • •• •

Virginia waterleaf Hydrophyllum virginianum Cleavers Galium aparine Aniseroot Osmorhiza longistylis Blue phlox Phlox divaricata Stemless blue violets Viola sororia

••• ••• •• • ••

Honewort Cryptotaenia canadensis Wild cucumber Echinocystis lobata Tall bellflower Campanula americana Side-flowering aster Aster lateriflorus Common mint Mentha arvensis

• • • • •

Hispid buttercup Ranunculus hispidus Cow parsnip Heracleum lanatum Virginia bluebells Mertensia virginica Missouri gooseberry Ribes missouriense Chokecherry Prunus virginiana

•• •• ••• • •••

Virginia wild rye Elymus virginicus White grass Leersia virginica Hop umbrella sedge Carex lupulina Virginia creeper Parthenocissus spp.

Canada moonseed Menispermum canadense

•• ••• •• • •

Virginia wild rye Elymus virginicus Ambiguous sedge Carex amphibola Bland sedge Carex blanda Nodding fescue Festuca subverticillata White grass Leersia virginica

• • • • •

Floodplain forests - highlighted by a collection of cottonwoods, silver

These two native vegetation regimes are persistent throughout

maples, and swamp white oaks - will cover the lower elevations of the

the entire site and aid increasing viable habitat for avian species

design site. The southern terrace forest regime with elm, basswood,

as well as assist in reconnecting a larger corridor within the

and hackberry, will take hold in the higher elevations.

Minnesota River system.

746

748

750

752

754

756

758

760

762

766

768

770

772

774

776

Flood Trails

x761’ BW

x777’ BW

Pedestrian Boardwalk

x785’ TW

Minnesota River Trail

x765’ TW

Minnesota River

x771’

x779’

x781’

Service Road

x791’ x785’ 500 Year Flood 784’

1b

x779’

100 Year Flood 778’

x762’ TW Seasonal High 762’

Passive

Seasonal Low 750’

Mudflat

1a

Floodplain

Active

Southern Terrace Forest 20’

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As it currently exists, an extreme lack of trees, floodplain vegetation, and

Restoring Natural

natural shoreline has been detrimental to various avian and aquatic species

Riparian Vegetation

such as the swallow, bald eagle, soft-shell turtle, and catfish. Northern Providing Habitat for

rough-winged swallows, for example, breed in riparian areas located along

Critical Species

the Minnesota River during the summer. This design allows for plentiful swallow habitat by restoring the natural floodplain forests and introducing swallow nests carved into the modified concrete flood wall.

FLYWAY MIGRATION Dunlin American Golden-Plover

When we look at aquatic species, catfish prefer deep pools to occupy during summer days. A series of large wing dams, which will be the first site elements to flood regularly, will help shape the underwater current

SUMMER (BREEDING)

and shoreline – giving catfish a more natural and needed habitat. During

Northern Rough-winged Swallow Prothonotary Warbler

the summer months, when river levels are low, these wing dams will also function as fishing piers, giving residents a new hot-spot to cast for catfish.

WINTER (NON-BREEDING) Bald Eagle Flathead Catfish

Blue Sucker Shovelnose Sturgeon

Smooth Softshell Mucket Mussel

Wing

Dam +

g Pier

Fishin

2’-0”

ll

4’-0”

8’-0”

ftshe

So ooth

Sm

Swallow Nests

atfish

10’-0”

ead C

Flath

758’

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Closer to the river sits a series of Flood Trails. Constructed of reclaimed concrete from the previous flood wall, these Flood Trails encourage a more adventurous experience. In this design, the existing flood wall will be deconstructed to form a set of smaller slabs, ranging anywhere from 3-6 feet in width, and 10 to 20 feet in length. The staggered design of these wall pieces reflect that of a fragmented system, a symbolic gesture of the onceuntouchable flood wall being strewn across the forest floor.

While acting as a set of modern relics, the Flood Trails will be able to be inundated with water during peak flood events in the wet spring months.

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HUBBARD PLAZA P5

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HUBBARD PLAZA Located in the shadow of Mankato’s most dominant skyline element - the impressive, white grain silos - sits Hubbard Plaza. The Hubbard Mill, for which this space is named, was constructed in 1878 as the largest flour mill in southern Minnesota. Although ownership of the mill has shifted to Cargill, the opportunity to showcase one of Mankato’s structural and

2a

economic landmarks is prudent. Hubbard Plaza combines a need for riverfront programmable space within the context of a towering icon. As

3a 3b

1a

all trails on site converge upon the plaza, design is focused on bringing 2b

site users together to occupy space that can be transformed to hold small concerts, motion picture projections, light shows, temporary art murals,

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and exhibitions showcasing the city’s historic past. Along with an elevated walkway connection to the newly-relocated Blue Earth County Historical 1b

Society, Hubbard Plaza is bound to attract residents and visitors alike to experience the spectacle of Mankato’s industrial narrative.

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760 746

748

750

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758

764 762

x782’

x771’ BW

768

766

x785’ TW

770

x785’

772

784

x794’ 786

Minnesota River Trail Hubbard Walkway

Service Road

x775’ BW x785’ TW

Wall Walkway Minnesota River

River View Terrace x785’

Lawn x782’

784

Pedestrian Boardwalk x784’

x785’

Cargill Mill

x772’ BW x785’ TW

Memorial Bridge Connection

20’

121

Hubbard Plaza acts as a public open space and extension of the pedestrian boardwalk that snakes through the site. Its form and geometries are taken from the adjacent grain elevators and flood wall. Within this portion of 7’-0”

2’-0”

the design, the existing concrete flood wall will remain intact due to the

x785’ 1’-6” 1’-0”

Existing Concrete Flood Wall

compression of available space between the river and rail lines, as well as an opportunity to use the flood wall to build the plaza up against.

3’-0”

x782’

x778’

Passive

River-view Terrace + Stage Lawn

Designed to give residents great views of the river, Hubbard Plaza also

5’

becomes a transformative space that can be used for a variety of small events. The plaza space - with the backdrop of the tall structures - could be used to hold small concerts, light shows, temporary art murals, and exhibitions showcasing the city’s historic past. It is beneficial for Mankato to take advantage of one of its most notable and recognizable structures and give residents an up close and personal experience with the city’s manufacturing and agricultural history.

x784’ 500 Year Flood 784’

Cargill

Hubbard Mill

x782’

1b

100 Year Flood 778’

1a

763’x Seasonal High 762’

Active Rail

Industry

Seasonal Low 750’

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NORMAL

River With the construction of infill development in Old Town and the relocation of the Blue Earth County Historical Society to the district, it is important to give users an accessible way to access the riverfront. The section elevations below display the elevated walkway over the railroad tracks, which connects Hubbard Plaza with the new Historical Society.

Hubbard Plaza will be situated at an elevation higher than other spaces within the design - safely out of the 500 year floodplain. The diagrams on the opposite page show the inundation potential of the design, with the

100 YR

plaza at a safe height to provide uninterrupted space for activity.

x806’

x781’

Flood

Blue Earth County Historical Society

Hubbard Walkway

x785’ x782’

2b

2a Passive

Active

Passive Rail

Southern Terrace Forest

500 YR

Flood x806’

x785’ TW

x785’

x784’

x780’

Existing Flood Wall 766’x

Passive

3b Active

Passive Rail

3a

Floodplain

Southern Terrace Forest 20’

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Another key aspect of Hubbard Plaza is its function as a hub of activity, connectivity, and Old Town renewal. The plaza sits at the confluence of all the major trail systems on site. The boardwalk runs through, as does the Minnesota River Trail and one branch of the Flood Trails. A connector walkway to Veteran’s Memorial Bridge, seen here on the lower right, will also allow residents from North Mankato a quicker and more efficient means of getting down to the riverfront.

Hubbard Plaza will act as one of many instances of Old Town renewal. Along with the Elm Street Gateway and improved pedestrian circulation within the site, the opportunity to educate and showcase Mankato’s historic legacy is important. Attracting more residents and visitors to Old Town will spur an even greater awareness and need for an enhanced pedestrian environment.

Focusing on the aspects of Mankato’s industrial history will give a unique quality to a city in need of a renewed riverfront.

CARGILL MILL

HUBBARD PLAZA FLOOD WALL REMNANT

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The benefits of providing a resilient and re-imagined riverfront space far outweigh the perceived limitations of such a system. Flood protection infrastructure does not need to be static and colossal, it does not always need to be the rock – it can be flexible and reflective of both the urban and riparian systems. Mankato’s connection to the Minnesota River has seemingly been forever altered, but that need not be the case. We must let design sensitivity take hold of the change that so frequently exists between the city and river.

How can a city incorporate change and compromise into its own being? I am hoping this project underlines the need for river cities to recognize that their strongest asset is often times on the other side of the wall: a river worth designing for and bringing people to.

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Literature Research Materials Bibliography

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RESEARCH MATERIALS Base Material

Source

Base Material

Source

Historic Maps

Blue Earth County Historical Society (BECHS) David Rumsey Historic Map Collection Sanborn maps

Urban Design Guidelines

City of Mankato (avail. online)

City Parks & Trails

City of Mankato Damon Farber Associates

Historic Aerial Images

DNR Minnesota Landview BECHS

Ecology & Habitat

MN DNR MN River Basin Data Center Friends of the MN Valley

Historic Photography

AYTCH (Urban & Regional Studies Institute at MSU Mankato) BECHS

Soil & Geology

USGS Soil Conservation Service MN Geological Survey Blue Earth County Geologic Atlas

Current Aerial Imagery

USGS

Topography

City of Mankato

MN River Watershed

MN River Basin Data Center MN River Trends

City-wide data layers (streets, infrastructure, utilities, storm water)

City of Mankato

Floodplain & MN River

FEMA MN River Basin Data Center NOAA

Political Boundaries

MN Office of the Secretary

Mankato Flood Control & Policies

City of Mankato

Land Use/Comp Plans

City of Mankato (avail. online) Mankato Flood Wall

Army Corps of Engineers

Property Ownership

City of Mankato Blue Earth County tax assessor

Local Zoning & Policies

City of Mankato

Demographics

US Census Minnesota Compass

Transportation Plans

City of Mankato

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BIBLIOGRAPHY Bell, Simon. 1997. Design for Outdoor Recreation. London: E & FN Spon.

Davidson, M. 2009. Waterfront Development. University of Western Sydney: Elsevier Ltd.

Bell’s book examines various aspects of facilities and systems associated with outdoor recreation. The text and specific diagrams act as a manual for designers to

Waterfront Development presents a broad and over arching view of the current

best approach the relationship between the landscape and the visitor. The chapter

and past systems related to cities located adjacent to water bodies. By taking a

outlining Water-based recreation (p. 157-166) is especially helpful as it outlines

historical glance at how these transformations have occurred, it brings to light

fishing and boating design guidelines, in particular. Applying to my project, the text

just how widespread and natural it is for these systems to change over time. The

details everything from spatial and recreation planning to site-scale trail, water-based

article examines urban development agendas, postindustrial landscapes, political

recreation, and education interventions. Although outdoor recreation design does not

significance, economic value, and sociocultural value of waterfront projects.

fall directly into the four main categories for this literature review, the text reveals

There is no bias attributed to this article because it presents the material in a

valuable precedents of successful designs that incorporate landscapes with water

very matter-of-fact and educational format in addition to outlining the accounted

access – a vital aspect of any riverfront design.

values that waterfront development projects have created.

Berrizbeitia, Anita. 2009. Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates: Reconstructing

Dreiseitl, Herbert, and Dieter Grau and Karl H.C. Ludwig. 2001. Waterscapes: Planning,

Urban Landscapes. New Haven, CT: Yale UP.

Building and Designing with Water. Basel: Birkhauser.

The author details various design projects designed by Michael Van Valkenburgh

Waterscapes is a terrific collection of small-scale designs that intersect with water

Associates, including projects in Toronto, Pittsburgh, and New York City. The Allegheny

systems. The collection consists largely of European precedents and contains

Riverfront Park in Pittsburgh is featured in the text and contains important design

a wide variety of maps, diagrams, and detailed sections of how water can be

decisions regarding flooding. In addition to its space constraints and linearity, which

better utilized in the landscape. One project that stands out to me is the Scheme

is directly related to the potential site design for my project, the Allegheny Riverfront

for the banks of the Volme in Hagen (p. 92), which focuses design on the river

Park was designed to withstand the season flood events of the river. The flood

edge. There was a need and want from the community to transform its riverfront,

conditions of the Allegheny (up to 20’ in severe events) are akin to the Minnesota River

and redevelopment soon followed. This is very much a water-centric text that

which I am studying (up to 25’ in severe events). Perhaps the most beneficial is the

emphasizes the countless benefits of using water as both a design tool and design

level of design sophistication and urban system integration of the project in order to

value.

reflect the idea that urban parks “such as this are not scenic but are dynamic, intrinsic inhabitants of their complex, fluxing environments”.

Gang, Jeanne. 2011. Reverse Effect: Renewing Chicago’s Waterways. Chicago: Studio Gang Architects.

Brooks, Kenneth N., Peter F. Ffolliott, and Joeseph A. Magner. 2013. Hydrology and the Management of Watersheds. Ames, IA: Wiley Blackwell.

Reverse Effect is a collaborative project between Studio Gang Architects and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) that examines the history and

The text discusses a wide range of hydrologic processes through both technical and

use of the Chicago River and creative alternatives to address its evolving future.

systematic approaches. Chapters 8-10 are especially helpful towards my Capstone

The text outlines a studio taught by the author at the Harvard Graduate School

project, as they detail Soil Erosion Processes and Control, Sediment Supply and

of Design in which students envisioned solutions for the unique challenges and

Transport, and Fluvial Processes. The authors do a great job of outlining the primary

opportunities at Bubbly Creek, a proposed NRDC site that addresses restoring a

issues associated with topics, such as erosion for example, and proceed to investigate

natural diversion between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River to prevent the

how these processes can be quantified through the use of equations and examples.

spread of Asian Carp into Lake Michigan. The scope of the projects presented in

This will be beneficial when examining the Minnesota River’s erosion and sedimentation

this text is relevant to my capstone project, largely in part due to the design and

concerns and designing ways to cope and alleviate some of the hydrologic stresses

integration of multi-functional river infrastructure both at site and regional scale.

associated with the issues.

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Gregory, Juana. 2003. Van Buren Riverfront Metamorphosis: The Development of

James, Douglas L. and Scott F. Korom. 2001. Lessons from Grand Forks: Planning

Space. Thesis, University of Arkansas.

Structural Flood Control Measures. Natural Hazards Review 2.1: 22-32.

Juana Gregory’s thesis on the Van Buren Riverfront examines the historic nature

Douglas and Korom’s article regarding the Grand Forks flood control measures

of riverfront cities, their relationship with the river in the current period, and

was an eye-opening read as it revealed the surprises and issues that came about

riverfront design and development that can aid in their renewal. One of the most

in response to the 1997 flood. The article describes the need for the community

beneficial aspects of the paper was the inclusion of case studies she derived her

and its people to have access to accurate floodplain maps, have forecasts for

design from (Aker Brygge in Oslo, Norway, Cincinnati, OH, and Louisville, KY) and

flood stages, and to agree on alternative methods to flood mitigation. The Grand

the scope of the project itself – very much in concert with the scope and size of

Forks flood and subsequent response is an excellent case study because of the

the project I am working on. Van Buren and Mankato are nearly identical in terms

similarities to Mankato and its floods in 1951 and 1965. Although the article detailed

of their development patterns and riverfront patterns over time. The comparisons

the flood response before design of a new system took hold, it presents an

I can draw from this thesis will aid in strengthening my own project.

excellent example of how to address flood issues before they arise.

Gregory, Stanley V., Frederick J. Swanson, W. Arthur McKee, and Kenneth W. Cummins.

Kemp, Roger L. 2001. Main Street Renewal: A Handbook for Citizens and Public

1991. An Ecosystem Perspective of Riparian Zones. Bioscience 41.8: 540-551.

Officials. Jefferson, NC: McFarland.

The article, An Ecosystem Perspective of Riparian Zones, examines the

The author of Main Street Renewal has collected a range of case studies

characteristics, qualities, and systems within riparian zones. The basis for the

and professional articles that address techniques and case studies detailing

article is to overview the abundant processes that occur within these zones while

organization, management, and tools required for successful community

also shedding light on the need to incorporate these processes into a conceptual

revitalization. Strategies included in this text that will be beneficial to research

framework. Within the opening paragraph, the authors state the goal to “propose

further in regards to my capstone project include tax increment financing and

a conceptual model of riparian zones” that addresses the wide array of processes

small business development tools. There is little to no bias used in this text as

that shape the system. In the past, the riparian zone system has been largely

the material is presented in an orderly and obtainable fashion, with case studies

classified and studied as a combination of individual parts, rather than as a whole.

supporting the main ideas. Researching downtown revitalization strategies is vital

A majority of the article discusses previous findings related to riparian zones;

to examining the capstone project through the economics lens.

processes including geomorphology, landform, vegetation, soil, nutrient uptake, and aquatic invertebrates and vertebrates. Despite the benefits of summarizing the process in a clear format, the article falls short when trying to determine or frame a conceptual framework for studying riparian zones moving forward.

Nonetheless, the article is very helpful for my project in terms of providing valuable information and a comprehensive analysis regarding riparian zones – a key system within the impending design.

Herrington, Susan. 2009. On Landscapes. New York: Routledge.

Herrington’s On Landscapes examines the emotional and social effects that landscapes have on our cultural and societal values. By diving into topics such as the ‘naturalized’ landscape, memory and emotion, and imaginative place-making, Herrington presents examples and syntheses related to current-day design. On Landscapes fits well into my project scope because of its investigation of the human conditions, both within and because of landscape design - a precursor to my studies of public space within a conceptually ‘naturalized’ riverfront.

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Musser, Kimberly, Scott Kudelka, Richard Moore, and Project Partners. Minnesota River

Schneekloth, Lynda H., and Robert G. Shibley. 1995. Placemaking: The Art and Practice

Basin Trends. 2009. Minnesota State University Mankato.

of Building Communities. New York: Wiley.

This report documents finds and analysis gathered by faculty at the Water

Placemaking details collective strategies aimed to invigorate placemaking and its

Resources Center from Minnesota State University Mankato as well as the MN

systematic design within society. Four unique case studies are explored within

Pollution Control Agency and The Minnesota River Watershed Alliance. The report

the text, each with its own circumstances and how placemaking was a necessity

is meant to act as a broad overview of the many ecological, hydrological, and

to further the design. One of the most important realizations put forth from the

social issues at play within the Minnesota River Basin. Topics examine include

text is the need for placemaking to exhibit not only the creation of relationships

history of the basin, land use and demographics, water quantity and quality,

between people and places - but also the creation of relationships among people

aquatic and terrestrial life, recreation, and emerging trends. I have found this

in places. An overview of ways to achieve this, such as designing dialogue spaces

report extremely beneficial because it provides an in-depth overview of the

and encouraging increase neighborhood and civic participation, will help guide me

entire Minnesota River Basin in addition to specifying specific management

in how to approach and talk with both the city staff and neighborhood groups.

practices and trends. Water quality of rivers and streams is detailed on page 31 and provides numerous sites that have shown an overall decrease in pollution

Tate, Alan. 2001. Great City Parks. London: Spon.

over the past few decades. However, the Minnesota River is still the most polluted river in the state, largely due to agricultural runoff. This report is helpful because it

Great City Parks is a collection of case studies of various large urban parks from

outlines the current problems, examines emerging trends, and suggest strategies

around the world. The author goes into great detail regarding the history and

that communities can take to better care for their river.

construction, spatial constraints, program, and successes of the parks. A great example that is described in the text is Freeway Park in Seattle. Because of its

Miguez, Marcelo Gomes, and Flavio Cesar Borba Mascarenhas, Luiz Paulo Canedo de

physical site location – primarily over a transport route – it is a valuable case study

Magalhaes, and Carlo Fabiano Vellozo D’Alterio. 2009. Planning and Design of Urban

when looking at the conflux of infrastructure and green public space. Although

Flood Control Measures: Assessing Effects Combination. Journal of Urban Planning

it is still unforeseen what scope of public space will be designed within my

and Development 1.35: 100-109.

Capstone project, this text offers valuable precedents for how public spaces are constructed, integrated, and perceived within the urban context.

Planning and Design of Urban Flood Control Measures consists largely of investigating the urban system and its effect on flood control and mitigation

Thompson, George F., and Frederick R. Steiner. 1997. Ecological Design and Planning.

design. The article does an impressive job by laying out the current paradigm

New York: John Wiley.

of traditional flood control methods while also balancing the need of modeling and improved techniques to get a better hold on flood events in the future. A

Thompson and Steiner’s Ecological Design and Planning is based upon a collection

mathematical flow cell model, based from work from Zanobetti et al. (1970),

of essays from notable landscape architects, planners, and designers including

was used on a case study located in the Joana River in Brazil. Site analysis and

James Corner, Laurie Olin, and Ian McHarg. The essays cover a wide breadth of

mathematical modeling was used to create a proposed set of design interventions

topics all connected to ecological design and its purpose and focus within the

best suited for the site. This article will be beneficial towards my Capstone project

field. The authors have collected essays that speak towards the need for increased

because it argues the point that urban river systems should be modeled and

attention to ecological-based design, often with examples that illustrate the

analyzed more in depth than in the traditional sense, prompting the creation of a

transformation of the landscape architecture field. This book has been helpful

more resilient and site-specific design for each project.

towards my project because it has pushed me to focus on both designing within the bounds of the field while exploring new avenues to think outside of the box.

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U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: St. Paul District. 2004. Minnesota River Basin

Watson, Donald, and Michele Adams. 2011. Design for Flooding: Architecture,

Reconnaissance Study: Section 905(b) Analysis.

Landscape, and Urban Design for Resilience to Flooding and Climate Change.

Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.

This reconnaissance study put forth by the Army Corps of Engineers is a detailed examination that outlines characteristics, features, past projects, and future

Design for Flooding presents both a broad and narrow scope when it comes to

projects along the Minnesota River. Although the document explores the entire

designing, engineering, and planning with flood-based infrastructure and systems.

reach of the river, it is a very helpful document when trying to understand the

The first half of the book discusses broad topics such as weather, land and water

hydrologic and ecologic systems of the Minnesota. A particularly helpful piece

interactions, and flooding on coastal and riverine systems. The second half of

is the section on Water Quality, which examines the current state of pollutants

the text looks more in depth with strategies and solutions, often times in case

in the river and what is being done to help mitigate those problems. In addition,

study format, geared toward flood mitigation and resilience design. The material

the section on Flooding describes in detail various projects the Army Corps has

presented is linked very closely to my design proposal, mostly in conjunction with

constructed, including the flood walls in Mankato and North Mankato. The article

flood system management and riverine flooding conditions. More importantly,

is very much an informational and static text that uses little to no bias and is a

the text devotes a chapter to resiliency tied to flooding design - the core of my

helpful article when trying to understand the broad and complex issues regarding

project.

the Minnesota River.

Wells, Barbara. 2003. Downtown revitalization in urban neighborhoods and small Vogt, Gunther, and Alice Foxley. 2010. Distance and Engagement: Walking, Thinking

cities. Northeast Midwest Institute.

and Making Landscape. Lars Mueller Verlag: Springer Verlag.

Wells’ article is devoted primarily to case studies detailing downtown Distance and Engagement is a collection and investigation into the design works

redevelopment strategies and successes from across the country. Infill

and processes of Vogt Landscape Architects. The book acts as a product of these

development relies on a variety of design principles that are outlined within the

processes, examining everything from site visits to model-making to the intricacies

article such as engaging citizens in identifying a community vision, reclaiming

of ecological systems worked into their designs. One project I found particularly

blighted areas to restore economic and social systems, and providing more

helpful was the Novartis Campus Park design in Basel (p. 135-227). The attention

connections for neighborhoods to transportation and recreation opportunities.

to detail when going through design process and the abundance of analysis into

The article follows a consistent format for each case study: Features, Challenge,

geologic and hydrologic history of the site paved way for an incredibly intricate

Turning Point, Approach, and Results. This is helpful towards my project because

and appropriate design. I plan on using the Vogt process – preparation, site visits,

it outlines communities with similar demographic and urban systems as Mankato

analysis, and multi-layered design – to help move my design project along.

that are experiencing redevelopment opportunities.

Walker, Brian, and David Salt. 2006. Resilience Thinking: Sustaining Ecosystems and People in a Changing World. Washington: Island Press.

Walker and Salt’s Resilience Thinking focuses on defining and providing strategies and solutions towards achieving resiliency. The text details up numerous case studies including the Florida Everglades, the lake district of Wisconsin, and wetland systems of Sweden and how strategies for sustainability and resilience have moved toward solutions. The book also delves into defining key terms related to resilience, such as threshold, baseline, and variability. Resilience Thinking correlates directly with the topic I am researching: river and urban systems need to coexist in a more resilient fashion in order to accentuate and provide long-term benefits for users and the environment.

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Michael Schiebe michael.schiebe@gmail.com Capstone Project Master’s of Landscape Architecture University of Minnesota College of Design - 2014

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