Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Ashuelot River Park

Keene

NH

USA

Contributed by 
Chuck Simpson
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
March 23, 2006
May 1, 2024

A city park located along the Ashuelot River.

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

This park is an oasis of green situated along a river within the city sprawl of Keene NH. It is an open space with quiet little nooks for resting. The gardens have unbelievable plant material. The park is a trail head for a bike and pedestrian path along the river. It also has one of only two pedestrian suspension bridges as a way to cross the river. There are these beautiful falls that cascade over the old dam.

Access & Linkages

There is an arch that acts as a gate to enter into a gorgeous world of plants, open lawn area and unbelievable views of the river. It is the trail head for a pedestrian and bike path. The suspension bridge accesses an environmental education area sponsored by Antioch College. The pathways flow through the park much like the river.

Comfort & Image

The park turns heads and is the show pieces of a quaint town. Everyone brings visiting friends and relatives there to show off what their town has. It has 50/50 use ratio and kids of all ages go there along with seniors.

There is plenty of seating, including a covered gazebo. The city does an excellent job of maintaining the lawns and local garden clubs keep up the beds. Parking is very accessible and doesn't interfere with the park. Once inside the park hustle and bustle seems to vanish. The city police patrol the park on bikes and there are two coffee shops adjacent.

Uses & Activities

The park has been used for weddings, canoe races, art shows, concerts, prom pictures, picnicking and dance performances. The park has engraved granite cobblestones along pathways and as garden edging. The cobbles are a fund raiser. People do the "park walk" and read the names.

Sociability

People love the park. It is an asset to the town. It is a destination of many. Mostly it is used by smaller groups. Moms and dads with their kids and grandparents. Picnickers, "Lovers."

There is also a working composting toilet.

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Ashuelot River Park
Images courtesy of Chuck Simpson
Ashuelot River Park
Ashuelot River Park
Ashuelot River Park
Ashuelot River Park
Ashuelot River Park
Ashuelot River Park
Ashuelot River Park

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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