
Theatre Consulting Lighting Design
|
Case Study

Schwiebert Riverfront Park
Rock Island, Illinois
​
Municipal Waterfront Park and Event Pavilion


Design Services Provided:
Landscape and site lighting
Theatrical lighting system
Event power distribution
​
Public engagement Robust and efficient systems
Flexible infrastructure Balanced lighting quality




Key Solutions:
Architect: SAA Design Group/Gere Dismer
Engineer: KJWW Engineering Consultants
Completion: 2010
Once a barrier between downtown and the mighty Mississippi River, this section of Rock Island waterfront was reclaimed from its prior heritage as a decaying armory building, and reborn as a community gathering spot to anchor new residential and commercial activity in the downtown area.
The park has distinct functional areas yet has a rhythmic pedestrian flow that spans the site. Opportunities exist for picnicking, enjoying river barge traffic and wildlife mingling at the nearby lock and dam, enjoying a concert at the pavilion, or sharing wedding vows on the paver compass rose.
Site and landscape lighting provide a balance of comfortable evening illumination while not interfering with enjoyment of the river and sky views or stage events. Integral stage lighting at the pavilion serves routine performance needs.
It also accents the canopy structure in homage to the former armory silhouette. Color-changing fixtures at the zero-depth pool provide sparkle year-round, and locally commissioned sculptures have dedicated feature lighting.
Ample event power is integrated into the landscape pediments and support buildings, hidden from view yet readily accessible when needed. 600 amps of show power are located behind the stage for popular music events, and another 500 amps of event power are split into 3-phase distribution boxes around each greenspace.
The project won Midwest Construction Magazine 2010 Project of the Year in Government/Public Building category. Design services performed while with another firm.