BUILDING PROJECT
WATERING TROUGH
PRESERVING HISTORY ALONG THE NATIONAL ROAD
Along the storied National Road, a natural spring watering trough once served as a vital resting place for travelers and their horses. To honor this history and create a meaningful public space, our team was engaged to prepare building permit plans and land development plans for a new recreation area. The goal: preserve the site’s heritage while providing a safe, accessible, and educational destination for today’s visitors.
Project Scope for the Watering Trough:
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Structural design of recreation area features
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Electrical design for site utilities and amenities
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Site lighting design for safety and ambiance
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Development plan and finished grading plan
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Stormwater management plan with narrative
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Erosion control plan with narrative
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Landscape plan to integrate the site into its natural surroundings
HONORING A HISTORIC LANDMARK
The watering trough was more than a spring. It was a lifeline for travelers along the National Road. Our design approach respected this legacy, creating a public recreation area where visitors can pause, learn, and reflect on the site’s role in regional history.
Engineering with Purpose
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Structural Design: Ensured the recreation area’s features were durable, safe, and complementary to the historic setting.
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Electrical & Lighting: Designed systems to provide reliable power and site lighting that enhances safety while creating a welcoming atmosphere for evening visitors.
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Finished Grading & Development Plan: Balanced accessibility with preservation, ensuring smooth circulation while protecting the natural spring.
Environmental Stewardship
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Stormwater Plan with Narrative: Developed to responsibly manage runoff and protect the spring’s integrity.
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Erosion Control Plan with Narrative: Incorporated best practices to safeguard the site during construction and maintain long-term stability.
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Landscape Plan: Used native plantings and thoughtful design to frame the historic trough, blending the recreation area into its natural surroundings.
Public Recreation Area at the Historic Watering Trough
The completed recreation area now serves as both a community gathering space and an educational destination. Visitors can experience the history of the National Road firsthand while enjoying a thoughtfully designed public space that balances heritage, function, and sustainability.
