When designing and constructing parks, ensuring their longevity and functionality under extreme weather conditions is paramount. From freeze-thaw cycles to torrential rains and scorching heat, parks face constant environmental challenges. By using the right construction methods and materials, landscape designers and contractors together create durable, weather-resistant spaces that serve communities for years to come. Some key strategies and materials to address these challenges include:

Plant Selection for Extreme Climates
The right choice of plant material is crucial for creating resilient green spaces that thrive under diverse weather conditions.

• Native and Drought-Tolerant Plants: Native species are inherently adapted to local climates, making them more resilient to temperature extremes and requiring less water.
• Cold-Hardy Species: Our region continues to experience increasingly harsh winters. Selecting trees and shrubs that can survive freezing temperatures and resist frost damage is increasingly important.
• Genetically Modified Trees and Plants: Also important to note, trees and plants that have been cross-bred for specific qualities will often revert back to their natural state following a freeze. (i.e. thornless palo verde or mesquite may grow back with thorns, variegated plants will over time revert back to their standard coloring, and dwarf varietals can grow back larger over time).
• Flood-Tolerant Vegetation: For flood-prone areas, plants with deep root systems, like certain sedges or bald cypress, can help stabilize soil and manage water absorption.
• Mulching and Soil Amendments: Applying mulch around plants helps to regulate soil temperature, retain moisture during heat spells, and provide insulation during freezes. Enhancing soil with organic matter can also further support water retention and drainage.

When selecting plants, careful consideration of the soil type and depth, sun and shade patterns, and native micro-climate allows a landscape, such as Waterloo Park, to thrive nearly year-round.

Integrating Stormwater Management Features
Modern parks increasingly incorporate stormwater management as a key design element, blending functionality with aesthetics.

• Rain Gardens: These landscaped areas collect and filter runoff, reducing flooding and protecting surrounding features from water damage.
• Green Roofs: On pavilions or shelters, green roofs can absorb rainwater, reduce runoff, and provide insulation during extreme heat or cold.
• Retention Basins: Basins or detention ponds temporarily hold stormwater, allowing gradual infiltration into the ground.

Rain gardens and permeable surfaces, such as those at Pease Park, manage stormwater effectively while creating a visually appealing environment.

Irrigation Systems Designed for Resilience
Water management is a critical aspect of any park’s construction. Efficient and durable irrigation systems not only maintain plant health but also prevent soil erosion and waterlogging during extreme weather events.

• Smart Irrigation Technology: Weather-responsive irrigation systems adjust water output based on rainfall, temperature, and soil moisture levels. These systems help prevent overwatering during heavy rains, ensure adequate hydration during heatwaves, and allow for rapid shutoff in the event of freeze.
• Subsurface Irrigation: Subsurface drip systems reduce evaporation during high temperatures and minimize the risk of freezing damage by keeping water lines underground during cold snaps.
• Drainage Integration: Incorporating proper drainage, permeable surfaces, and bioswales to channel excess water during storms, protects both hardscape and plant material from water damage.

Drip irrigation lines, such as those under the concrete walkways at Hemisfair Civic Park, help to efficiently water plants located near the walkway, while also minimizing the risk of damage to the concrete from cracking or heaving in extreme weather events.

Hardscape Materials That Can Endure the Elements
Hardscaping—pathways, plazas, retaining walls, and seating areas—forms the backbone of park infrastructure. These features must withstand repeated freeze-thaw cycles, intense UV exposure, and heavy rainfall without cracking, warping, or eroding.

• Freeze-Thaw Resistant Pavers: Designed to resist cracking from freeze-thaw cycles, these materials often have higher compressive strength and are treated with sealants to repel water.
• Permeable Pavements: Conversely, permeable pavements are designed specifically to allow water to penetrate the surface. By allowing water to seep through, permeable concrete, asphalt, or pavers reduce runoff and minimize pooling during storms.
• UV-Stable Materials: Specialty materials like thermally modified wood or UV-resistant concrete finishes can help to prevent fading, cracking, or warping in areas with full-sun.
• Reinforced Retaining Walls: Building retaining walls using geogrid-reinforced systems and weather-resistant blocks can help to ensure structural stability during heavy rains or shifting soils.

Building Parks That Last
By employing these construction methods and selecting materials tailored to extreme weather, together we create parks that not only endure, but thrive in the face of environmental challenges. Whether it’s a large public green space, a neighborhood playground or walking trail, or any other type of public space, resilient design and construction ensures that parks remain safe, beautiful, and functional for everyone—no matter what the weather brings.

For more information on some of our favorite resilient parks, click here.