People search for a sense of place in their surroundings that connect them to the environment.

 

Located along the sand hill crane migratory route, the I-10 / Fort Grant Traffic Interchange architectural treatments reflect the annual arrival of sand hill cranes to their winter home, the Willcox Playa. Growing interest in viewing the cranes and other wildlife sparked an annual event, ‘Wings over Willcox’. The festival features education, food, and crafts, tours and has become very popular attracting bird watchers world wide. The I-10 / Fort Grant Interchange provides an entry gateway to this internationally attended event.

 

Unique Features:

During Public Open House meetings, community members reviewed concept sketches and strongly supported the architectural enhancement concept of ‘cranes on the bridge’ and apache headdresses for the west pedestrian fence of the bridge. Imagery of cattle, cowboys and trains was supported by the community’s ranching and railroad enthusiasts and was selected for the east side of the pedestrian bridge fencing.

 

Responsibilities:

Concept and Design Development, Construction Documentation and Construction Administration. With Wheat Scharf Associates.

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