Goal Park is a proposal for the enhancement of a greenery area in the east end of Houston’s downtown (EaDo) with a design inspired in the arts & sports supporting Houston’s current diversity. LOCATION The exact location of this project falls at the end point of the Columbia Tap Rail-Trail which is surrounded by the Creative Office Furniture warehouse on the north, a former mattress warehouse on th
e south and St. Charles street on the west and Live Oak street on the east. The area is one block east of the BBVA Compass stadium. PURPOSE The main purpose of this proposal is to create a landmark and a point of destination for Houstonians and tourists. The proposal not only will enhance the greenery area and the end point of the bike path, but it will also serve as an area for kids and adults to gather before every Dynamo game and in general to encourage people to enjoy the Columbia Tap Rail-Trail at any time. DESIGN The design consists of the integration of the bike path into the green areas creating designated areas for seating and open areas. These open areas can be used for outdoor fitness free-standing structures and for food trucks to participate in different events throughout the year. Three wooden circle shape in plan areas are proposed for tables with benches and trees for shading. Dynamic shapes in plan engage these seating areas with spaces with gravel or rubbed floor alternating the texture between the seating areas, the bike path, and open areas. New lighting fixtures are also proposed as well as a few more trees, and a water fountain. Because Houston is implementing a stronger bike culture, an area for racks with bike rentals is also another element of the park. Lastly, the element that will make this a unique place is the art proposed on the site. The idea is to paint the facades of the two buildings that surround the area with sports and life motivational messages. A key element is a sculpture that will emphasize the entrance to the park and at the same time will represent the name of the park: GOAL. Commissioning Robert Indiana artist to do a monumental GOAL sculpture similar to his LOVE sculpture in NY, GOAL reflects two meanings: scoring a goal in sports and having a goal in life. Overall, this is a project proposal for the community and be part of Houston’s cultural identity. It is a project that will create an icon of the city. It will encourage outdoor activities, interaction, and a gateway for future projects in the city of Houston.
