The transformation of an abandoned viaduct into the Rail Park has captured the attention and excitement of Philadelphia’s visitors, residents, and designers. IES Philadelphia, the local chapter of the Illuminating Engineering Society, has organized an evening tour with the design team to discuss how the park’s lighting and landscape design work together to create this urban oasis.
The Lighting Practice’s Caitlin Bucari will guide IES members on a tour of the park on May 2, 2019 alongside Bryan Hanes of Studio Bryan Hanes. Together they will discuss how the Rail Park went from a conceptual plan championed by a few to a multi-phased project supported by the community, local politicians, city advocates, and the design community.
About The Rail Park
Unveiled in June 2018, the Rail Park currently stretches from 13th and Noble Streets to the 1100-block of Callowhill Street. The quarter-mile public trail was previously known as Reading Viaduct, a former pedestrian walk-through and freight train-line that had been unused since the 1980s. The Center City District of Philadelphia collaborated with local residents and stakeholders on a plan to provide a safe, natural space for the community while utilizing the original materials of the railway. The elevated park now offers expansive views of Philadelphia as well as benches, swings, and green space. The completed project will total three miles and will link Philadelphia’s Chinatown to Brewerytown. therailpark.org
Lighting for Community Appeal
Caitlin and Alfred Borden designed the accent lighting for the park’s hardscape and landscape in the public areas as well as the artistic, color-changing light installations in the underpasses at Callowhill and 12th and 13th Streets. The Lighting Practice’s design utilizes low-level fixtures in the plantings and strategically placed pole lights comfortably illuminating the park for visitors without disrupting evening views of the city.
