Design Challenge: Boch Hollow presented challenges, including accommodating two school buses in the parking lot with easy access. We also needed to provide 20 parking spaces and work with a steep grade and limited area. Another challenge was creating an accessible route to the bridge for waterfall viewing without impacting the water.

Design Solution: To address these challenges, MSP designed the parking lot with two bus spaces for children’s safety. We included the required 20 parking spaces to meet visitor needs. We minimized the steep grade by adding a retaining wall with a railing. An 80-foot wooden bridge spans the creek without impacting water flow. This bridge provides an accessible route for viewing the waterfall. Wooden steps at the end of the bridge lead to a path. These steps connect to the existing nature trail.

Design Outcome: The final design allows more people to explore Boch Hollow without traveling far from existing entry points. Adding bus parking and 20 vehicular parking spaces improves visitor accessibility. The bridge and trail connections enhance the experience, letting visitors enjoy Boch Hollow’s beauty more easily. This project improves accessibility while preserving the natural environment by minimizing water flow impact.

Additional Subconsultant Firms: Barber & Hoffman, Inc., Civil Solutions Associates, and Harral and Stevenson, LLC

Visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website for more information.

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