The City of Windsor is set to reimagine the iconic Charles Brooks Memorial Peace Fountain on the Detroit River. Focused on energy efficiency, the project explores three distinct fountain options, each incorporating renewable energy sources and unique design elements.
The design process, led by the architecture firm, PARTISANS, began with an inter-generational, value-based approach, involving the community in defining the shared values for the project. The goal was to create a space that not only serves as a landmark but also resonates with the memories and experiences of Windsorites, making the Peace Fountain a place for calmness, celebration, and remembrance.
Option one: Floating
Inspired by the concept of a traditional campfire, the Floating Fountain proposes a complete rebuild with the latest fountain technology, lighting, and multimedia. The design features a central 7.3 m (24 ft) diameter raft and two side rafts, showcasing a timeless fountain in the summer and an illuminated orb sustaining winter conditions.
Option two: Boardwalk
Embracing the river’s historical significance, the Boardwalk design introduces a new fountain along the belvedere at Reaume Park. Serving as a flood barrier, the fountain infrastructure will replace the existing guardrail, offering interactive stations and improving the plaza. The Boardwalk option focuses on outdoor comfort with misting effects and controlled fountain interactions.
Option three: The Arch
Symbolizing Windsor and Detroit’s economic and cultural relationship, The Arch is a 98-m (322-ft) steel structure spanning above the bay. With 85 rotating nozzles and integrated lighting, it becomes a new landmark for the park, contributing to the city’s image of innovation. The Arch also prioritizes outdoor comfort, with interactive, idle, and magical moment programming.
Energy efficiency and renewable potential
All three options incorporate renewable energy sources generated by underwater turbines in the Detroit River. The turbines, developed in collaboration with the Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC), take advantage of the fast-moving river currents. This hydrokinetic power system ensures a net-zero or even positive energy balance.
The hydrokinetic power system has several advantages, including its resilience to weather conditions, continuous energy generation, minimal impact on marine life, and a small environmental footprint.
As Windsor moves toward implementing these innovative fountain options, the city not only enhances its public spaces but also becomes a model for sustainable and energy-efficient urban design, reinforcing its identity as a city of innovation and progress.
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