Gipson Play Plaza at Dorothea Dix Park

S&ME was engaged to provide geotechnical services for the Dorothea Dix Park Gipson Plaza and Play project in Raleigh, North Carolina. The project spans an approximate 16-acre site adjacent to Lake Wheeler Road, featuring plans for expansive green spaces, play areas, and public amenities.

During the schematic design phase, S&ME conducted a preliminary geotechnical investigation. The scope included reviewing available subsurface data, performing widely spaced soil test borings, and laboratory tests to determine the soil properties. The findings were compiled into a preliminary geotechnical report outlining potential subsurface conditions and their impact on the development. This phase also involved participation in design team meetings to refine and discuss findings. In the subsequent design development phase, additional, more detailed geotechnical exploration was performed.

This included more precise soil testing at the locations of proposed structures and play areas. The results were integrated into a final geotechnical engineering report, providing detailed soil parameters, recommendations for foundations, and potential site preparation methods The scope extended into the construction documentation phase, where S&ME collaborated with the design team to ensure geotechnical recommendations were reflected in the final project specifications.

Overall, S&ME’s geotechnical services provided essential data and recommendations that informed the development and design of the Gipson Plaza and Play elements of  Dorothea Dix Park, ensuring that the project was grounded on solid engineering principles.

Sunflower Power Poles

Near Dix Park’s entryway, two utility line poles pay homage to the park’s sunflower field in an installation by Raleigh-based artist, Thomas Sayre. These sunflower power poles feature 48 stainless steel petals between 8’ and 10’ long. Standing at 73’ tall along Lake Wheeler Road, the poles are clearly visible and greet park visitors at the entrance to the new Gipson Play Plaza at Dorothea Dix Park. S&ME performed geotechnical exploration of the subsurface conditions at the site.