Renewable Energy Playground & Learning Park
Concept:
The idea of a glass-enclosed solar powered carrousel on the waterfront was initiated by Architect Laura Briggs as part of her 2002 Report to the Erie County Environmental Management Council entitled Ideas for a Riverwalk which included ideas about how to incorporate renewable and non-polluting energy sources in the Riverwalk, and in all City and County parks and recreational areas.
Glass-enclosed carrousels to extend seasonal use have been successfully implemented in the following areas: Servicemens Park in Hull, Massachusetts; Islip, New York and Saratoga Springs, New York. However, the concept of a solar powered carrousel and playground would be recognized as unique to the Buffalo/Niagara Region. Consistent with harnessing hydro-power as cutting-edge technology in the early 20th century, our region can be looked upon in the 21st century once again for innovations that complement and utilize the natural wonders of the world, and the development of other renewable energy sources.
Heritage Tourism is based on authenticity and education. This family entertainment project will build upon the past history of our region while featuring cutting-edge technologies of the future provided by the sun and wind. The project will feature a historic Herschell carrousel and provide an interactive exhibit about the workings of the carrousel and its Wurlitzer band organ.
The solar, wind and other renewable energy sources used to power the carrousel and playground will educate and illustrate new forms of electricity provided by clean renewable energy sources. solar, wind, geo thermal, grid 100% wind. The Buffalo/Niagara Solar Playground and Learning Park will provide education embedded in history and invention.
The Renewable Energy Park and Carrousel will provide important exhibit links to the giants who shaped Buffalos identity, including Thomas Edison, Frederick Law Olmsted and Frank Lloyd Wright.
Innovation: The carrousel and playground will demonstrate and educate about the generation of electricity from the sun and wind can provide electricity. Solar features for the playground could include a solar-powered robot, solar sunflowers, solar powered ice cream cart, lighting and fountains, etc. The playground could provide stepping stones powered by pv and lit by l.e.d.s with the possibility of filling cylinders of colored water with each step. The goal is to have fun and learn at the same time. Amelia Amon whose designs were part of the Smithsonians Under the Sun traveling solar exhibit will develop elements of playground and learning park. Science and the laws of physics will be demonstrated in all exhibits.
The One-Stop Home Energy Information Center will provide information about green jobs and training opportunities and information about available resources in the region such as assessments of home energy needs, architects and builders, companies and individuals who provide the services, and where renewable energy technologies can be purchased.
Update: Currently there is a group of UB students working to shed more light on the significance of this project. For more information please contact Joan Bozer at jkbozer@gmail.com.
Info from proposal by committee for WNY Renewable Energy Demonstration Park Featuring the Solar Powered Carrousel
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