The Lehman Blog

Potawatomi Conservatory Renovation

2011-11-18T08:54:00.006-05:00

The Potawatomi Conservatory is located within Potawatomi Park in South Bend, Indiana and is scheduled to receive significant renovations to improve utility efficiencies and site conditions. The main focus of the project is to improve the mechanical and electrical systems. However, some site renovations and circulation improvements are also proposed. The ultimate goal of the project is to help the Conservatory to continue to serve as one of the primary cultural amenities for Potawatomi Park and for the South Bend and Michiana area.

Lehman & Lehman was commissioned by Kil Architecture & Planning of South Bend to provide site design services and was assigned the task of developing convenient parking, a clear main entrance and an accessible walkway connection to the Potawatomi Zoo and to additional parking.
The proposed demolition of the existing greenhouses will allow for the development of an east entry into the facility and for a new parking lot. To promote and demonstrate the effectiveness of bio-retention and filtration, a rain garden is also proposed along the east side of the parking lot.
The project is scheduled to begin this fall with completion in the late spring of 2012. Below is a photographic gallery of the project's progress.

Pre-Construction Phase

8.12.11 Existing entrance to Ella-Morris Conservatory.

8.12.11 Existing boiler house and greenhouses to be demolished for new parking lot.

8.12.11 Existing building foundation to be removed. Proposed location of new greenhouse addition.

8.12.11 Existing greenhouses (background) to be demolished for new parking lot.

8.12.11 Proposed location of new parking lot.

8.12.11 Existing Mishawaka Avenue streetscape in front of Conservatory (looking west).

8.12.11 Existing Mishawaka Avenue streetscape in front of Conservatory (looking east).

8.12.11 Existing Ella-Morris Conservatory (background) and the existing greenhouses set for demolition.

8.12.11 Existing alley to be improved and re-routed.

8.12.11 Existing parking lot north of Conservatory. Proposed location of new accessible walkway.

8.12.11 Proposed location of new accessible walkway connecting the north parking lot to the Conservatory.

Potawatomi Park Exercise Plaza

2011-11-17T15:41:00.014-05:00

Building on the success of the Potawatomi Park "Fun for All' Project with the award of the 2007 Access to Recreation Grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County has secured additional funding for the continued development of universally accessible outdoor play. The recent award will allow the Community Foundation to expand the existing playground, built in 2009, and to construct a new outdoor exercise area.
Lehman & Lehman was commissioned by the Community Foundation to design and oversee the construction of the new exercise area and the accessible walkway. Ancon Construction of Goshen, Indiana was the contractor responsible for the implementation of the proposed design.
Below is a photographic gallery of the construction process.

Conceptual Sketch

Pre-Construction Phase

5.12.11 Proposed location of the exercise area.

5.12.11 Existing gravel path to be replaced - east connection.

5.12.11 Existing pavilion adjacent to the proposed exercise area.

7.14.11 Proposed location of new accessible walkway connecting the parking lot to the playground.

7.14.11 View of the parking lot from the top of the hill.

7.14.11 Existing walkway that the new accessible walkway will tie into.

Construction Phase

9.29.11 Excavation of main exercise area.

9.29.11 Excavation of new east walkway connection.

9.29.11 Excavation of new pavilion connection.

9.29.11 Preparation of main exercise area with adjacent pavilion in background.

9.29.11 View from the existing playground area of exercise area.

9.30.11 Excavation of accessible walkway - view from the parking lot.

9.30.11 Excavation of accessible walkway - view from the top of the hill.

9.30.11 Installation of yard drains adjacent to the exercise area.

10.14.11 Setting forms for the exercise area.

10.14.11 Concrete forms for the new pavilion walkway connection.

10.14.11 Setting forms for accessible walkway - view from the parking lot.

10.14.11 Entry node with bollards at the edge of the parking lot.

10.17.11 Early morning pour of walkway.

10.17.11 Finishing of accessible concrete walkway.

Post-Construction Phase

11.11.11 Completed accessible walkway.

11.11.11 Completed pavilion walkway connection.

11.11.11 Completed exercise area.

11.11.11 Completed exercise area - view from pavilion.

Landscape Architects Hit the Streets Nationwide

2011-08-17T07:33:00.004-04:00

From Alaska to Florida, landscape architects will hold simultaneous events on 08.17.11 to educate the public. Watch this video or stop by the County/City Building in South Bend, Indiana at noon to learn more.

Take a hike and call me in the morning

2011-05-04T13:13:00.004-04:00

"We’ve heard it before…we all need to get up and move more. No one is exempt – not us, our kids, nor our parents. We know, we know – but how many of us have treadmills, stairclimbers or another piece of expensive fitness equipment in our homes that is currently serving as: a) a coatrack, b) a cluttered catch-all, or c) is simply sitting by its lonesome gathering dust by the minute? And let’s not get started on those unused gym memberships. Knowing doesn’t equal doing, and we pay for it with larger waistlines or hitting that dreaded number on the scale. It happens…but it’s never too late to turn it around. A walk in the park might be just what the doctor ordered!"
So begins the March 31, 2011 entry of HEALTHLINES Riverview Hospital Noblesville's health blog. Click here to read more about "Park Prescriptions" and discover how your local park may be just what you need!

Hillis Hans Park

2011-04-14T08:38:00.011-04:00

Hillis Hans Park, located in the 600 block of East 13^th Street is a public, neighborhood park in Mishawaka, Indiana. At just over five acres in size, the park currently offers tennis courts, playground equipment, basketball courts, picnic tables, grills and restrooms. Lehman & Lehman was commissioned by the City of Mishawaka to redesign the park with new site amenities and internal circulation. Upon completion of the design plans and a successful bidding process, LL Geans Construction Company of Mishawaka was selected to complete the transformation of the park. Once complete, the park will offer residents a new park shelter, a new basketball court, an expanded playground with new equipment, a new internal walkway, improved park lighting and new tree and landscape plantings. The park is expected to be completed and dedicated on June 18th. Below is a photographic gallery of the construction process.

SITE PLAN

GRAND OPENING

6.18.11 Mayor Wood addressing the crowd at the Grand Opening

6.18.11 New sign at entrance to Park

6.18.11 New picnic shelter

6.18.11 New concrete basketball courts

6.18.11 Play area with new equipment

6.18.11 Finished renovated restroom

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

6.2.11 Fine grading renovated lawn areas

6.2.11 New park bench

6.2.11 New trash receptacle

6.2.11 New hardieboard soffit on existing restroom

6.2.11 New hardieboard ceiling on existing restroom

6.2.11 New climbing play structure

6.2.11 Completed shelter and renovated restroom

6.2.11 New playground equipment and safety surfacing

6.2.11 Installation of the new standing seam roof on existing restroom

5.20.11 New brick park sign

5.20.11 New soffit (back) vs. old soffit (front)

5.20.11 Sistering of existing rafters

5.20.11 Exposed rafters of restroom after removal of the roof

5.20.11 Demolition of existing restroom roof

5.20.11 Paving existing streets around the park

5.20.211 Paving existing streets around the park

5.20.11 Milling of existing streets around the park

5.19.11 New street trees on the perimeter of the park

5.19.11 Early construction of the new masonry park sign

5.19.11 Wood ceiling of the new shelter

5.19.11 New framing for the brick columns on the shelter

5.19.11 Installation of standing seam roof on the new shelter

5.10.11 New ADA curb ramp

5.10.11 Spreading topsoil for finished grade and seeding

5.10.11 Construction of new shelter

5.10.11 Construction of new shelter

5.10.11 Damaged wood soffit prior to repair

5.10.11 Existing fascia and soffit damage prior to to replacement

5.10.11 Sagging roof between trusses due to deteriorating substrate

5.10.11 Holes in existing roof of restroom

5.10.11 Roof of existing restroom prior to removal

5.5.11 Setting of forms for new ADA ramp

5.5.11 New playground bench pad and access point - west end

5.5.11 New double rider play equipment

5.5.11 New concrete basketball court

5.5.11 New northeast entry sidewalk

5.5.11 New integral color concrete bench area at new basketball court

4.28.11 New internal walkway connecting to the perimeter sidewalk on the northeast corner of the park

4.28.11 New perimeter sidewalk

4.28.11 Forms set for the new basketball court

4.28.11 New shelter pad with shelter equipment ready for assembly

4.28.11 New accessible connection to the existing restroom with concrete bench pad

4.28.11 New internal walkway leading to the new shelter and existing restroom

4.28.11 New accessible connection to the expanded playground with concrete pads for new bench and trash receptacle.

4.13.11 Construction of new curb and gutter

4.13.11 Finished section of new curb and gutter

4.13.11 End section of the internal walkway to be connected to a new perimeter sidewalk

4.13.11 New concrete playground curb

4.13.11 Saw cutting of joints in the new shelter slab

4.13.11 Pouring and finishing of new concrete walkway

4.8.11 New concrete sidewalk and approach to existing restroom

4.8.11 Completed footing for new shelter

4.8.11 Forming of new concrete walkway

4.8.11 forms set for new concrete playground curb

4.8.11 Demolition of existing curb & sidewalk; excavation and preparation for new sidewalk & curb

4.1.11 Outdated play equipment edging removed

4.1.11 Construction of footing for new shelter

4.1.11 Contractor adjusts the forms of the new shelter footings

4.1.11 Excavation of poor soils for new walkway

3.24.11 Demolition of existing play court

3.24.11 Demolition of existing basketball court

3.24.11 New light poles and fixtures, installed by Mishawaka Utilities

3.24.11 Mishawaka Utilities installing 1 of 4 new light poles

3.24.11 Demolition of existing tennis courts

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE

11.4.10 Existing plastic playground edging to be removed and replaced

8.5.10 Existing restroom with no accessible access

8.5.10 Existing playground with outdated play equipment

8.5.10 Existing perimeter sidewalk and curb to be replaced

8.5.10 Existing tennis courts to be removed

8.5.10 Existing park open space

The Wisdom of Nature

2011-04-06T10:32:00.003-04:00

We recently discovered a beautiful booklet titled The Wisdom of Nature - Out My Back Door, a collaboration between Community Playthings® and World Forum Foundation. The focus is on helping children explore nature, reminding us:
"Once upon a time in the not-so-distant past, many children left the adult world on a daily basis and entered an outdoor world filled with fantasy and improvisations. Using sticks, branches, logs, sand, dirt, water and other natural materials, they built castles, houses, ships, rockets. As they ran, jumped, dug, climbed, slid, twirled and whirled, their imaginations took them across the prairie in covered wagons, up the tallest mountain, into outer space, and on high sea adventures. At the end of the day, they returned indoors dirty and tired but feeling happy and confident, competent and full of stories."

With warmer weather upon us, we encourage not only children, but the child in all of us, to get outside and play!

To "...help children learn to love the earth before we ask them to save it" check out The Wisdom of Nature-Out My Back Door by clicking here. You will then be able to browse a .pdf file or order a copy.

April is Landscape Architecture Month

2011-03-31T13:59:00.008-04:00

In celebration of National Landscape Architecture Month, the April issue of Landscape Architecture Magazine has been posted online for free downloading and viewing. Just follow this link.

We Wish You a Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T08:20:00.004-05:00

Happy Anniversary

2010-12-07T10:19:00.006-05:00

"Time flies when you're having fun", and twenty two years have flown by since Lehman & Lehman was incorporated on December 7, 1988.
We couldn't let the occasion pass without thanking our friends and clients for the trust you have placed in us through the years. We look forward to Transforming Horizons, together, well into the future.

Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park

2010-06-10T10:50:00.004-04:00

A recent visit with a client to Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan was a sensory delight.

"There are many areas within Meijer Gardens to explore including the indoor gardens such as the tropical conservatory, Victorian, carnivorous, and arid gardens, as well as the outdoor areas like the Children's Garden, Michigan's Farm Garden, seasonal gardens, the world-class Sculpture Park and meandering nature trails and boardwalk." (Reference: Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park web site)

We were inspired and awed by the beauty and recommend the Gardens as a must-see destination for your summer travel plans.

IU South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center

2010-06-10T10:29:00.006-04:00

The former Engman Natatorium in South Bend was recently dedicated as the Indiana University South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center.

"Inspired by the study of the Civil Rights Movement, students at IU South Bend founded the Civil Rights Heritage Center to record, preserve, and celebrate the struggles and extraordinary achievements of citizens committed to social justice. In partnership with schools, community organizations, neighborhood centers, and local government, the Civil Rights Heritage Center uses local and national civil rights history to promote social justice through individual responsibility and improved race relations." (reference: IU South Bend: Civil Rights Heritage Center web page)

Lehman & Lehman, Inc. is proud to have been a member of the project team in the preservation of such a significant piece of civil rights history, and congratulates all those involved for their perseverance in developing the Heritage Center and adjacent Peace Garden.

Frustration |frəˈstrā sh ən|

2010-05-20T14:43:00.026-04:00

noun
the feeling of being upset or annoyed, esp. because of inability to change or achieve something: I sometimes feel like screaming with frustration.

You may have recently experienced frustration if you’ve been trying to reach us by email. Your emails have not gone through and you’ve received a “bounce back” notice of failure.

Imagine our frustration! After discovering we were not receiving email, we also found that our website is missing in action!

Details will not be forced upon you here, but be assured that we are working on this problem. In the meantime, you can reach us at lehmanandlehman@gmail.com.

patience |ˈpā sh əns|

noun

the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset.

What The Future Holds

2010-01-08T08:31:00.005-05:00

Bright days ahead for public parks and recreation? You bet, says futurist Jim Carroll.

Those attending the NRPA (National Park & Recreation Association) Congress & Exposition, held in October heard Jim Carroll, futurist and expert on innovation and trends, give his keynote address in which he challenged leadership to be innovative to keep up with, and surpass, expectations. He was also interviewed for an article in the September 2009 issue of the Parks & Recreation magazine, where he gave his thoughts on the future of public parks.
We urge you to click here to read the entire article*.

*© COPYRIGHT 1997-2009 National Recreation and Park Association. This document may be reprinted and distributed for non-commercial and educational purposes only, and not for resale. No resale use may be made of material on this web site at any time. All other rights reserved.

10 Great Words

2009-12-17T07:54:00.003-05:00

Do you make New Year’s Resolutions? They usually involve something we all struggle with - change. Another word for change is Transform. Lehman & Lehman, Inc. has been “transforming horizons” for over 20 years!
To help you transform your resolutions, and your horizon for 2010, we’ve provided “10 Great Words” (authored by Jim Carroll, a futurist and trends / innovation expert). This is a powerful list with thought provoking concepts. Enjoy!
Observe
Take the time on a regular basis to look for the key trends that will impact you, the industry you work within or the career you have established. Take the time to learn about the many automated knowledge discovery tools that exist on the Internet; develop a culture that taps into global collaborative knowledge. Far too many organizations sit back after a dramatic change and asked, “what happened?” Make sure that your organization is one that asks, “what’s about to happen? And what should we do about it?”
Think
Analyze your observations: spend more time learning from what you see happening around you. If you are like most organizations, you are responding to trends on a short term, piecemeal basis: you are reactive, rather than proactive. Step back, take a deep breath, and analyze what trends are telling you. From that, do what really needs to be done.
Change
In a time of rapid change, you can’t expect to get by with what has worked in the past – you must be willing to do things differently. Abandon routine; adopt an open mind about the world around you. The world is changing at a furious pace whether you like it or not. Take a look at how you do everything – and decide to do things differently.
Dare
Have you lost your ability to take risks? Maybe so – yet risk-taking is critical to innovation and change. Work with a few of the new ideas that you generate, and try them out. That’s the only way that you will be comfortable with what comes next.
Try
How many of your people have lost their ability to adapt to changing circumstances because they’ve lost their confidence? Developing new skills and career capabilities is critical, given the rapid change occurring around us. Yet too many people have managed to convince themselves that they can’t adapt; they can’t change. Don’t let that happen – it’s one of the worst attitudes for going forward into the future.
Empower
In a world of rapid change, you can’t expect that rigidly defined rules will be the appropriate response to changing circumstances. A ticked off customer needs a solution right now from a front line customer service rep – not some type of follow-up from head office weeks later. A middle manager in a remote location needs the ability to make a decision and must commit to it today – they can’t afford to wait for the wheels of head office bureaucracy to churn. Destroy the hierarchy, and encourage a culture in which people are given the mandate and the power to do what’s right, at the right time, for the right reason.
Question
Go forward with a different viewpoint by challenging assumptions and eliminating habit. If your approach to the future is based upon your past success, ask yourself whether that will really guarantee you similar results in the future. If you do certain things because “you’ve always done it that way,” then now is an excellent time to start doing them differently.
Banish
Get rid of the words and phrases that steer you into inaction and indecision: “We can’t do that.” “It won’t work.” “That’s the dumbest thing I ever heard.” These are the innovation killer phrases – watch for them, and don’t permit them to be used.
Grow
Stop focusing strictly on cutting costs – focus on service opportunity instead. Don’t stand in fear of what you don’t know – teach yourself something new. Don’t question your ability to accomplish something great – grab the bull by the horns and see what you can do! The point is, in a world of rapid change, you must continually enhance your capabilities and opportunities through innovative thinking. Change your attitude now, and the rest will come easily.
Do
Renew your sense of purpose, and restore your enthusiasm for the future by taking action. Too many organizations, and the people who work within them, are on autopilot. They go into work each day, and do the same things they did the day before, with the belief that everything today is the same as it was yesterday. It isn’t.
Word #11
Oh, and there’s an 11th great word!
Enjoy!
Through the years, I’ve come to learn that the groups that pursue innovation are those organizations and individuals who approach the future with a lot of passion. These are the folks who tend to wake up every day and think, “wow, I can’t wait to get to work!” These are the people who have succeeded with being innovative, in mind, spirit, and actions.

Mishawaka Avenue Streetscape

2009-09-16T16:27:00.024-04:00

The City of Mishawaka has commissioned Lehman & Lehman, Inc. for design updates and construction documents for Mishawaka Avenue Streetscape, north of the downtown area. The intent is to create a vehicular and pedestrian friendly corridor that unites the river walk and town homes with the streetscape of Mishawaka Avenue. The primary goal of the project is to improve curbs, sidewalks and parking, refine lanes and adjust utility infrastructure. Additionally, aesthetic treatment in the form of landscape, lighting and signage will also take place along Mishawaka Avenue. Engineering services were provided by Danch, Harner & Associates, Inc

Construction by Rieth Riley Construction began in September 2009. Photos showing "Before", "In-Progress" and "Final" stages of construction will be posted below as progress continues.

MISHAWAKA AVENUE STREETSCAPE "IN-PROGRESS"

11.06.09 New curb for proposed planting bed

11.06.09 New curb at the intersection of Ann St. & Mishawaka Ave.

11.06.09 New curb & utilities in front of St. Monica's looking east

11/06/09 Middle of Mishawaka Avenue looking east

11/06/09 Middle of Mishawaka Avenue looking west

11.06.09 Looking west preparing for new curbs

11/06/09 New curb preparation looking west from the end of Elizabeth Street

10.16.09 Southern view from Ann Street

10.16.09 Looking east toward Main Street from Ann Street

10.16.09 Looking northeast - preparing for utilities

10.16.09 Looking east toward Main Street

10.16.09 View looking west toward Logan Street

MISHAWAKA AVENUE STREETSCAPE "BEFORE"

11.13.07 View from the end of Ann Street looking at the south side of Mishawaka Avenue

7.23.09 Existing corner of Elizabeth Street and Mishawaka Avenue looking east toward Main Street

7.23.09 Existing Mishawaka Avenue looking west

7.23.09 Existing streetscape view looking east

Pumpkinvine Trailhead Development and Bridge Rehabilitation (Updated August 25, 2009)

2009-03-10T10:07:00.034-04:00

Through the Lily Foundation and an Indiana Trails Grant, the Elkhart County Park & Recreation Department has continued the development and construction of the Pumpkinvine Trail. The County Park Board has commissioned Lehman & Lehman, Inc. to complete the design and development of a trailhead and parking lot as well as bridge rehabilitation.

The trailhead layout and design will be located east of State Road 13. It will include the development of a rest area equipped with picnic tables, benches, a drinking fountain and bike racks. In addition, the trailhead design will include an information kiosk about the Pumpkinvine Trail. Located off the west side of County Road 43, the new parking lot will serve users of the trail. It will accommodate ten vehicles and will have two spaces that are handicap accessible with easy access to the adjacent trail.

Bridge rehabilitation work will occur on three former railroad bridges. One spans the south fork of Pine Creek and the other two span Mather Ditch and East Lake Ditch. The bridge work will include bank stabilization and stream realignment as well as the replacement of existing piles, ties, back walls, and new decking, rail systems and concrete approaches.

Construction by bridge contractor, Beer & Slabaugh, is in progress. Bridge completion is scheduled for June. The completion of the trailhead is set for September, 2009 and the parking lot in 2010. Photos showing "Before", "In-Progress" and "Final" stages of construction for each of the three bridges, parking lot and trailhead are below.

SOUTH PINE CREEK BRIDGE "FINAL"

6.2.09 Approaching the renovated bridge from the east - Final segment of trail ready to be paved

6.2.09 Completed bridge renovation - New bridge decking, railing and concrete approaches

6.2.09 Old supports New - Decades old substructure supports new Pumpkinvine Pedestrian Trail

6.2.09 Newly contoured embankment stabilized with erosion control fabric and native seeding

6.2.09 View of new bridge looking towards County Road 33 and the cleaned up former railroad corridor

SOUTH PINE CREEK BRIDGE "IN-PROGRESS"

5.19.09 Re-aligned South Pine Creek with glacial stone bank stabilization

5.19.09 View looking east across the renovated bridge from the west bridge approach

5.19.09 View looking west where the new approach and guardrail meet the existing trail

5.19.09 Subgrade and base preparation for the east approach

5.19.09 New bridge railing cantilevered supports tied into the existing substructure

5.19.09 New bridge railing

5.19.09 New bridge deck surface abutting the concrete approach

5.19.09 Glacial stone bank stabilization

5.19.09 South Pine Creek Bridge renovation nearing completion

5.1.09 Existing East Bridge abutment with new pile encasement

5.1.09 South Pine Creek realignment and the early stages of bank stabilization

5.1.09 New west bridge abutment construction

5.1.09 Clearing of invasive trees on the east bank prior to bank stabilization

5.1.09 Existing bridge deck, curb and ties to be replaced with new wood decking and railings

5.1.09 East end of bridge - continuation of the new Pumpkinvine Trail segment to County Road 33

5.1.09 New stream alignment after site clearing, earthwork and debris removal

SOUTH PINE CREEK BRIDGE "BEFORE"

10.3.08 View looking east across the existing bridge and along the existing trail corridor toward County Road 33

7.2.08 Existing South Pine Creek Bridge

7.2.08 Existing temporary decking and deteriorating cross ties

7.2.08 View upstream (north) under existing bridge

7.2.08 Current stream location and center pile bent

7.2.08 Existing west abutment and severe bank erosion

PARKING LOT "BEFORE"

7.2.08 Proposed trail parking lot entrance off of County Road 43
and existing vegetation

7.2.08 Adjacent Proposed trail corridor, north of new parking lot

7.2.08 View of proposed trail corridor from location of new parking lot

TRAILHEAD "BEFORE"

7.2.08 Proposed trail route through woods and trailhead entry

7/2/08 Proposed trailhead location within existing woods
(north side of proposed trail)

7/2/08 Proposed trailhead (south side of proposed trail)

MATHER DITCH BRIDGE "IN-PROGRESS"

7.9.09 Existing bridge piles to be cut level to eliminate super-elevation of former railroad bridge

7.9.09 Existing bridge beams to be salvaged and re-used on renovated bridge

7.9.09 Mather Ditch flowing north - existing bridge piles to be replaced

7.9.09 View of western abutment scheduled for repair

7.9.09 Temporary earth platform for crane staging - east side of bridge

MATHER DITCH BRIDGE "BEFORE"

7.2.08 Existing deteriorating decking and overgrown vegetation on
Mather Ditch Bridge

7.2.08 Western view of the Mather Ditch Bridge on the
Pumpkinvine Trail Corridor

7.2.08 Eastern bridge pile bent and bridge abutment

EAST LAKE BRIDGE "IN-PROGRESS"

7.9.09 New substructure of East Lake Ditch Bridge prior to temporary decking

7.9.09 East Lake Ditch Bridge reconstruction

7/9/09 New bridge substructure - temporary decking will be installed to allow for trail paving

6.22.09 Bank protection for stream in-flow

6.22.09 New east bridge abutment with rip-rap bank stabilization

6.22.09 New west bridge abutment

6.22.09 New bridge abutments ready for new beams, ties and decking

6.22.09 New back wall reconstruction piles, pile cap and bank stabilization

6.22.09 Bank protection for stream out-flow

6.2.09 Existing deteriorated pile caps removed and scheduled to be replaced

6.2.09 Existing deteriorated piles scheduled to be removed and replaced

6.2.09 Unexpected deteriorated bridge beams that will be replaced with new HS-20 rated timber beams

6.2.09 Bridge construction crew positions new pile as it is suspended vertically by the crane

6.2.09 Crane mounted drop hammer begins to drive the new pile on the east side of East Lake Ditch

6.2.09 Crew observes pile as it is driven into the ground

EAST LAKE BRIDGE "BEFORE"

7.2.08 Existing deteriorating East Lake Ditch Bridge and decking

7.2.08 Existing west approach to bridge

7.2.08 Existing west abutment and back wall with overgrown vegetation

7.2.08 Existing deteriorating cross ties and piles, scheduled to be replaced

Burr Ponds Park Construction

2008-06-02T15:00:00.005-04:00

Lehman & Lehman completed the Burr Pond Park Comprehensive Master Plan for the Adrian Parks Department (Adrian, Michigan) in 2006. This 12-acre neighborhood park was once used as a State Fish Hatchery, featuring two ponds in great need of repair. The goal of the project was to create a peaceful park setting incorporating the renewed ponds, looping walkways, pedestrian bridges, picnic areas, and fishing areas.

The project is now complete, and the official Grand Re-Opening and Dedication took place on Saturday May 31, 2008. Below, you'll find photos from that dedication, followed by the overall master plan and construction photos, with the most recent photos first.

5.31.08 A new sign greets visitors as they enter Burr Ponds Park

5.31.08 Crowds gather for Burr Ponds Park Grand Re-Opening

5.31.08 Ribbon-cutting on the first pier

5.31.08 Ribbon-cutting on the second pier

5.31.08 A view of the south pond

5.31.08 Attendees of the Grand Re-Opening enjoy

the peaceful park setting near one of the bridges

5.31.08 A representative from Cabela's demonstrates fly fishing

5.31.08 Attendees view the weir structure and spillway

.....................................................................................................

Summer 2006: Rendered Master Plan

...................................................................................................

12.3.07 Completely reconstructed inlet stream

12.3.07 Completed entry pedestrian bridge

12.3.07 Completed limestone drop structure on inlet stream

12.3.07 Inlet stream emptying into completed south pond

12.3.07 Completed center bridge –
spanning the north and south pond construction

12.3.07 Installation of new fishing pier in north pond

12.3.07 Completed north pond with arrator

12.3.07 Completed weir and pedestrian bridge

12.3.07 Completed trail with seeded areas
protected by erosion control blanket

...................................................................................................

10.2.07 Final trail surface course

10.2.07 Final pond edge grading

10.2.07 Completed north pond with partial filling

10.2.07 Completed weir (pond side) and pedestrian bridge

...................................................................................................

9.24.07 Trail grading and base preparation

9.24.07 Trail gravel base and soil stabilization

9.24.07 Center bridge final grading and trail base preparation

9.24.07 North pond soil stabilization and partial pond filling

...................................................................................................

7.24.07 Trail connection at center bridge

7.24.07 Trail base construction

7.24.07 Ornamental fence and block retaining wall installation

7.24.07 Ornamental fence and block retaining wall at center bridge

6.22.07 View of North Pond from center bridge
(temporary access point in foreground)

6.22.07 View of South Pond from center bridge

6.22.07 Center bridge installation

6.22.07 Completed weir with pedestrian bridge and limestone edge

5.25.07 Limestone edge treatment at weir

5.15.07 Concrete labyrinth weir structure

5.3.07 New bridges awaiting installation

5.2.07 Construction crew finishing center bridge abutment

4.25.07 North fishing pier steel reinforcement installation

4.16.07 Excavation and rough grade of South Pond

4.16.07 Excavation and rough grade of North Pond

2.9.07 South Pond excavation

2.8.07 North Pond excavation

1.25.07 Excavation of North Pond

1.25.07 Dewatering of South Pond

Valparaiso Pathways Construction

2008-03-31T11:38:00.006-04:00

The City of Valparaiso Park and Recreation Department commissioned Lehman & Lehman, Inc. to complete a trail routing design plan for the construction of a pedestrian pathway. This $800,000 project is an expansion of the Valparaiso Pathways system throughout the City.

The project consists of two trail segments. The first is the Cumberland Crossing Loop that follows Vale Park Road west to Valparaiso Street, north on Valparaiso Street to Bullseye Lake Road, then east on Bullseye Lake Road to the new Cumberland Road extension. This segment is an 8-foot wide asphalt trail in an open right-of-way and is approximately 1 mile in length.

Segment two is a concrete sidewalk that begins at Valparaiso High School and continues south to Ogden Gardens Park. The new 8-foot wide concrete pathway is replacing an old 4-foot wide walk and is approximately 1 mile in length as well. This segment is in a narrow right-of-way and crosses numerous commercial and residential properties. Some right-of-way acquisition was necessary.

Construction began in August 2007, with completion set for May 2008. Below, you will find project photos, with the most recent photos first.

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Cumberland Loop

5.2.08 Bridge is set in place and spans the small drainage way

5.2.08 Crews line up the bridge on the abutments

5.2.08 Bridge is guided into place

5.2.08 Prefabricated bridge arrives for installation

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Campbell Street

3.31.08 Existing open drain prior to reshaping and
bridge construction

3.31.08 Heavy rains leave water at new bridge location

3.31.08 Fresh concrete along the final sections of the pathway

3.31.08 Fresh concrete along the final sections of the pathway

3.31.08 Final base preparation for the remaining
sections of the pathway

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3.17.08 Excavation and base installation complete –
existing residential retaining wall protected

3.17.08 Construction crews prepare to excavate
for a new concrete retaining wall and stairs

3.17.08 Demolition of existing stairs and
sidewalk along pathway route

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12.12.07 New concrete apron for property owners
adjacent to trail

12.12.07 New ADA Compliant curb ramps

12.12.07 Accommodation of existing utility infrastructure

12.12.07 New 8’ pathway in front of Valparaiso High School

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11.28.07 Demolition complete – pathway route ready
for new curb ramps and sidewalk

11.28.07 Demolition and excavation continues along Campbell St.

.....................................................................................................

11.16.07 Existing sidewalk removes and aggregate base installed

11.16.07 Existing driveways – saw cut and ready

.....................................................................................................

Cumberland Loop

11.16.07 Final trail paving through existing woods

11.16.07 Constructed trail along Valparaiso Street

11.16.07 Trail terminated at new pedestrian bridge location

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11.5.07 Trail excavation and aggregate base installation –

Vale Park Road East

11.5.07 Trail excavation and aggregate base installation –

Vale Park Road West

11.5.07 Trail excavation at Vale Park Road and

Valparaiso Street intersection

11.5.07 Trail sub base compaction

11.5.07 Excavated and compacted subgrade

for trail along Valparaiso Street

11.5.07 Site clearing at bridge location

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Campbell Street Existing Conditions

10.1.07 Proposed concrete pathway/

sidewalk improvements – ADA ramp

10.1.07 Proposed concrete pathway/

sidewalk in front of Valparaiso High School

10.1.07 Proposed commercial drive concrete apron improvement

10.1.07 Proposed pathway improvements and landscape renovation

10.1.07 Proposed pathway and private residential stair improvement

10.1.07 Proposed pathway improvement – utility accommodation

10.1.07 Proposed residential drive concrete apron improvements

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Cumberland Loop Existing Conditions

8.28.07 Proposed asphalt trail path location

along Vale Park Road (view to east)

8.28.07 Proposed asphalt trail path location

along Vale Park Road (view to west)

8.28.07 Proposed pedestrian bridge location

8.28.07 Proposed asphalt trail path

location along Valparaiso Street

Forest Park Lodge Parking and Site Improvements

2008-03-20T12:20:00.001-04:00

Lehman & Lehman was commissioned by the City of Noblesville Park and Recreation Department for the layout and design of numerous parking improvements, site lighting and the new Forest Park Lodge. The project replaced the existing gravel parking areas throughout the park with newly configured asphalt parking surfaces. New site lighting matching the city standard was planned along Park Drive and helped eliminate a majority of the overhead electric and wood utility poles.

In addition to the parking improvements, Lehman & Lehman located a new public assembly building (Forest Park Lodge) overlooking the Forest Park Golf Course. Designed by Balay Architects, Inc., the building will provide additional office space for park staff and will serve as a public assembly room for the City of Noblesville. Situated amongst some of the largest trees in the park, the 2,600 square foot Lodge will have its own 26 car parking lot with designated drop off area, an outdoor seating area in the front and a large deck above the walkout basement in the back. The $1.2 million project is currently under construction by Myers Construction Management, Inc. (Fishers, Indiana) and is scheduled to be completed in May of 2008. Below, you will find construction photos with the most recent photos first.

3.20.08 Main entrance – doors, windows and siding
have been installed

3.20.08 Exterior siding and masonry nears completion

3.20.08 View of Forest Park Golf Course from new deck

3.20.08 Crews begin ceiling tile installation

3.20.08 Construction crews finish paint and tiling in main room

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1.22.08 New concrete light pole base for lights along Park Drive

1.22.08 North side of lodge – main entry

1.22.08 South side of lodge from the edge of the golf course

1.22.08 South side of lodge showing walkout basement;
building is framed and under roof

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11.15.07 South side of lodge, forms show walkout basement

11.15.07 Construction crews begin forming the building basement

11.15.07 New parking bay along park drive

11.15.07 New parking bay along park drive

11.15.07 Shelter #3 parking lot nearing completion

11.15.07 Shelter #3 parking lot nearing completion

11.15.07 Shelter #5 parking lot nearing completion

11.15.07 Lodge parking demolition and excavation

11.15.07 Lodge main parking lot – gravel sub base

11.15.07 Lodge basement wall forming

11.15.07 Lodge basement excavation and basement wall forming

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10.18.07 Demolition of existing gravel parking areas

10.18.07 Milling of park drive and parking bay construction

10.18.07 Demolition of maintenance building and parking bay construction

10.18.07 Electrical service conduit installation for park drive lighting

10.18.07 Milling of park drive

10.18.07 Shelter #5 site clearing and parking lot construction

10.18.07 Shelter #5 site clearing and parking lot construction

10.18.07 Shelter #5 brick paver base preparation

10.18.07 Staking of new Forest Park Lodge

10.18.07 Site clearing for Lodge and parking lot

.....................................................................................................

4.24.07 Existing Forest Park Drive and gravel pull off parking

4.24.07 Existing maintenance building and park drive

4.24.07 Existing Shelter #3 parking lot

4.24.07 Existing Shelter #5 gravel parking lot

4.24.07 Existing Shelter #4 parking lot

4.24.07 Future location of the Forest Park Lodge

4.24.07 Existing Shelter #4

McNaughton Spray Park

2007-07-25T17:42:00.000-04:00

The Elkhart Parks Department (Elkhart, Indiana) commissioned Lehman & Lehman, in association with CTG Associates, Inc. (Mishawaka, Indiana), to prepare a master plan and construction documents for the McNaughton Park aquatics facility, as well as to design general site improvements.

The new aquatics facility, along with a concession stand and restroom, are located beside an expanded parking area near the existing tennis courts. The water sprayground area features a large spray structure and smaller, age-appropriate water jets and spray structures. Lounging, picnic, and shaded areas are located nearby for those wanting to watch the activities. Parking improvements will adequately serve the additional patrons the new park activities bring and improve the vehicular circulation.

On Friday July 13, the community was welcomed to to the new McNaughton Spray Park with a Ribbon-Cutting and Grand Opening ceremony. Below, you’ll find photos from the Grand Opening, with construction photos following the rendered plan.

7.13.07 Elkhart's Mayor Miller and the Elkhart Parks Department

cut the ribbon to open the new McNaughton Spray Park

7.13.07 Elkhart's Mayor Miller is still smiling – even after getting

soaked by 150 gallons of water from the Tipping Bucket

7.13.07 Bob Edel, Director of Parks & Cultural Resources for the City of Elkhart stands out of the way as children enjoy getting drenched by the Tipping Bucket

7.13.07 Children play with water cannons on one of the spraypads

7.13.07 Elevated shot of overall facility

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October 2006: Phase 1 Rendered Plan - Sprayground Development

Undated – Old McNaughton Park Wading Pool

11.5.05 Aerial view of site—preconstruction

11.11.05 These basketball courts were demolished for Sprayground

2.20.07 Construction crews form concrete surge tank

4.3.07 Masons work on walls for restroom building

4.3.07 Preliminary Sprayground grading

4.17.07 Setting trusses

5.1.07 Construction continues on building roof

5.1.07 Rough fitting of Sprayground plumbing

5.15.07 Roof over the main entrance

5.15.07 Initial Sprayground drain formation

6.12.07 First Sprayground installed

6.12.07 Crews continue pouring concrete decking within Sprayground

6.22.07 View inside concession stand

6.22.07 First water test: Tot-Lot play structure

6.22.07 Main Sprayground feature: Aquaplay 250

6.26.07 A contractor lays out new sidewalk and fencing

6.26.07 Formation of new curb in the parking lot

6.28.07 Workers begin constructing exterior fencing

(Photo provided by Ziolkowski Construction)

6.28.07 Tipping Bucket overturned during first water test

(Photo provided by Ziolkowski Construction)

Forest Park Aquatics - Parking Lot Construction

2007-06-27T14:20:00.000-04:00

The Noblesville Parks and Recreation Department (Noblesville, Indiana) commissioned Lehman & Lehman to design a parking lot expansion adjacent to the Aquatic Center in Forest Park. The goal of the project was to increase parking space to accommodate the large number of people who visit the pool and nearby baseball field during the summer months. The new 80-car asphalt parking lot was built in an open area that once served as overflow parking. To reduce runoff and protect against pollutants, the center parking bays were constructed with permeable concrete pavers. Below are photos of the construction process – from pre-construction to completion, with the most recent photos first.

6.11.07 Pervious paver parking bay

6.11.07 Final asphalt parking lot & sidewalk

6.11.07 Final asphalt parking surface

5.2.07 Parking lot excavation and base installation

3.6.07 New parking lot—preconstruction

3.6.07 New parking lot—preconstruction

Purdue University Outdoor Sports Courts Construction

2007-06-13T16:05:00.001-04:00

Purdue University (West Lafayette, Indiana) commissioned Lehman & Lehman this past spring to assist in the design and development of their new Recreational Sports Outdoor Courts due to their displacement by campus expansion.

Professional assistance included coordination with the Recreational Sports Division, the Purdue Construction Department, as well as the preparation of necessary construction drawings based on the Feasibility Study previously prepared by Lehman & Lehman, Inc.

The project was completed in May of 2007. The photos below show the completed site, with photos before and during construction following the finished product.

6.20.07 New sand volleyball courts west of Aquatic Center

6.20.07 New sand volleyball courts

6.20.07 New basketball courts with final court surfacing

6.20.07 New basketball court with final court surfacing

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2.5.06 Location of new outdoor basketball courts

2.5.06 Rear entry to the Recreational Sports Center (pre-construction)

2.5.06 Location of new Sand Volleyball Courts
directly west of Aquatic Center (pre-construction)

12.5.06 Location of North Basketball Court
(to be completed in the spring of 2007)

12.5.06 Asphalt base for the South Basketball Court

12.5.06 Excavation for new Sand Volleyball Court

12.5.06 Final subgrade for Sand Volleyball Court

12.5.06 New concrete court edge; subsurface drain tile

12.5.06 New Pedestrian walkway west of the Aquatic Center