Jackson Street Pier Redevelopment

Sandusky, Ohio

The City of Sandusky, recognizing the assets of its Lake Erie waterfront as well as its culture as a blend of tight community and tourist destination, identified the Jackson Street Pier as a prime space for development of a park in a key position within its commercial district. The development will be multi-functional, providing a gathering space for public events, an open lawn area for recreation, fishing piers, walking paths, and parking for residents and visitors who enjoy “watching the waves” from the comfort of their cars.

Design details were inspired by city’s history as a critical stop on the Underground Railroad. The landscape design, too, underwent intense scrutiny, needing to be attractive, yet well-vetted for life on the highly exposed pier. Boulevard Studios worked with city staff to develop a plant palette with low-maintenance materials proven to be hardy on Sandusky’s lakefront.

Adjacent to the project, Shoreline Drive will be developed as a streetscape companion to the pier, reflecting the design detailing and providing improved access to the pier for all modalities, pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicular. The firm participated in early concept designs and prepared full landscape plans as well as irrigation design for both projects.