The Lincoln Journal Star | January 15, 2016
Enhanced entrance: Locally made markers beautify Lincoln
Schemmer’s Pat Birch, AIA, LEED AP, was featured in The Lincoln Journal Star regarding the Lincoln Airport Entryway Corridor project on Cornhusker Highway in Lincoln, Neb. The project aims at “beautifying Cornhusker Highway, from the Lincoln Airport east to downtown.”
Birch’s role in the project was to develop construction drawings for a streetscape master plan based on the concept drawings provided by the Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department.
The focal point of the project includes “unique district markers” that serve as a welcoming and introduction to the City of Lincoln, “add a substantial presence,” and a guide to the downtown area.
“Just as pioneers used the light of the stars in the sky to find their way, we wanted to guide people to our downtown. As lanterns are reminiscent of those first settlers wanting to establish home, the glow provides a warm welcome as you enter town,” said Mark Canney, designer for Lincoln Parks and Recreation.
The markers are distinctive to the history and culture of early Nebraskan settlers and feature unique elements to the City of Lincoln, such as corn, the state bird, and a locomotive. The vertical aspect imitates the Capitol building creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout the City.
In addition to the markers, natural landscaping will accompany the markers along the medians, such as native plants and trees to “add life” to an otherwise “primarily industrial corridor.”
Click here to read the full article and click here to view more on the project.
