Kincaide Park

Quincy, massachusetts

Historic Kincaide Park, a public park in an underserved neighborhood, was in dire need of improvements. Flooding events had become common in the existing park, the multigenerational context of the site had not addressed, and the park’s safety had become a concern for the community. Furthermore, because the park has historic significance as the former site of granite refining and polishing companies, a careful strategy was needed to preserve the park’s historic elements, which include stone walls and old growth heritage trees.

An extensive community engagement process was undertaken and provided vital input for the park’s new design. Residents’ desires were recorded, analyzed, and incorporated throughout the park, and are evident in features such as the splash pad, fitness equipment, plentiful seating, and floristic effects. Four design goals were developed through community outreach and research: stormwater management, recreational amenities, connection to the community, and ultimately, environmental justice for the neighborhood.

With the goal of designing a productive, functional ecology, we aimed to restore the hydrologic cycle that once existed onsite and lower the risk of localized flooding. To reduce the amount of fill needed, a three part strategy was developed. One, soils were removed from the site’s floodplain for repurposing by the city; two, added soils were redesigned to be more permeable and improve infiltration; and three, soils were mounded to elevate them above the floodplain. New infiltration basins collect sheeting water, closely mimicking the function of the former brook. The basins host diverse ecotypes that utilize native and naturalized plants to attract wildlife. A sign program was developed to inform users on local history, hydrology, and ecology. 

A multi-use trail encircles core spaces, designed to provide clear sightlines for caregivers while unifying key features of the park. Flexible fields accommodate a diverse range of programming, while basketball courts, fitness and play equipment, custom benches, and the splash pad create shared ground for all generations. Improved, additional entrances, leading from two nearby schools and the adjacent nursing home, provide newfound accessibility to the park. Integrated, custom seating throughout supplies comfortable, ADA accessible places to rest or view sporting events. Safety concerns were addressed with comprehensive lighting, not only increasing safety, but expanding evening and nighttime use.

An informed design process that began with community engagement has resulted in a newly vibrant Kincaide Park that incorporates stormwater management with productive ecology, provides enhanced recreational opportunities, and is now perfectly tailored to this previously underserved neighborhood.

Awards: BSLA Award, Special Recognition, Champions for Community Voice, 2021