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 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. Hundreds of new plants and 45 newly planted trees will provide a gorgeous setting for the Peace Path.
The winning design of the Peace Park was submitted by
the Presentation Design Group in collaboration
with Kate McGee Landscape Architect.
(Click Image for PDF Enlargement)
"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.
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.
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 display information about a pair of American Peace Laureates and what each did to merit the Peace Prize.
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.
It is hoped that those experiencing the Peace Path will be inspired to start their own personal path to peace.
To view a 7 minute 35 second video about the Nobel Peace Laureate Project on You Tube go to http://www.youtube.com/user/NobelPeacelaureate.