Award
2021 Honor Award
Site
Normal, IL
Client
Town of Normal, IL
Category
Communications
Landscape Architects
Hoerr Schaudt Landscape Architects
Project Details
In 2001, the town of Normal adopted a renewal plan for the Central Business District, boldly using sustainability as a catalyst for its rejuvenation. The focal point of the redevelopment plan was the town green, a central park area affording residents the opportunity to gather, congregate, and play.
This video explores the ways that the central green has created powerful sense of place for the community. Filmed during a particularly tumultuous summer for the town and the country as a whole, the video shows the shadow of a fight for social justice that hung heavily over a community that was still struggling to overcome a global pandemic. Chalk writing can be seen on the perimeter of The Circle echoing the cries of the peaceful protest just days before. Young couples, families, and old friends are able to gather safely and remind themselves of the value that human connection brings.
Project Team
Clark Dietz, Farnsworth Group, Farr Associates, Hey and Associates