The Peace Park:
The Peace Park is to be located on a two-acre parcel in Eugene’s Alton Baker Park, at the base of the DeFazio Footbridge and near the Ferry Street Bridge. The Peace Park will consist of a Peace Path and an information kiosk at the entrance to the path. A stone wall will border the winding path and plaques on pillars alongside the path will acknowledge each American winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. A serpentine stone wall will border the winding path and plaques on pillars alongside the path will acknowledge each American winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. An alcove designed for peaceful contemplation will be located midway along the path.
The winning design of the Peace Park was submitted by
the Presentation Design Group in collaboration
with Kate McGee Landscape Architect.
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"There is no path to peace. Peace is a path" - Mahatma Gandhi
The Peace Path:
At the southeast entrance to the path there will be an informational kiosk where the pedestrians are introduced to the concepts behind the Peace Path they are about to experience. The kiosk will feature a brief history of the Nobel Peace Prize, a map indicating where the American recipient recognition pillars are located, Mahatma Gandhi’s quote, recognition of the park’s contributors, and an international list of every winner of the Peace Prize. American winners and their plaque’s position along the Peace Path would be highlighted. Some of this information will be displayed on removable panels within weather- and tamper-proof cases that allow for updates. The kiosk will reflect the aesthetic tone of the recipient recognition pillars described below.
Conceptual Stone Wall
The Peace Path will vary between eight and ten feet wide, and be trimmed on the western edge by a stone wall about 30 inches high. This wall will wind along the entire length of the path and provide continuity throughout the journey. At times, the stones will act as a retaining wall for the rising and falling landscape behind. The sunlight-dappled path shall be lined on either side by plantings of local grasses and trees. East of the path beyond the adjacent plantings will stretch a rolling lawn.
Sample Winding Peace Path and American Recipient Pillar
The American recipient pillars are to be placed at intervals along the Peace Path’s eastern edge. Each pillar will be backed by an arc of stacked basalt with a corten steel façade. An arced steel fin running perpendicular to this surface will provide two separate viewing areas and room for two prize recipients per pillar. Each recipient will have a description of their prize-winning deeds beneath their name and the year they were awarded the prize. A motivational quote from each winner will be printed on the surface adjacent to their informational panel.
Architect's Illustration of the Central Alcove
At the halfway point of the path, an alcove will sit on a slightly raised area nestled amidst the trees, creating a prime spot for peaceful contemplation. The alcove will be encircled by the same stone wall as the path. The surrounding plantings and trees shall provide a serene, intimate atmosphere, and supply an effective sound barrier.
The Peace Path will continue along until it intersects the existing path that runs parallel to the north side of the lot. It is hoped that those experiencing the Peace Path will be inspired to start their own personal path to peace.
To view a 7minute 35 second video about the Nobel Peace Laureate Project on You Tube go to http://www.youtube.com/user/NobelPeacelaureate