The Pierscape project has transformed the public realms of Chicago’s number one tourist attraction, Navy Pier. The redesigned pier provides more park-type amenities, with a heavy emphasis on creating additional green space and informally programmed space. Primera, as part of the James Corner Field Operations team, provided civil, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering,  as well as architectural code consulting services and permitting assistance.

The project was certified under a sustainability rating system titled Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES), which is similar to the widely-recognized LEED sustainability rating system, but focuses specifically on projects that do not involve buildings or interior spaces. The Pierscape project incorporates elements of sustainable design that capitalize on Navy Pier’s unique location adjacent to the mouth of the Chicago River at Lake Michigan. Primera performed all civil design for the project and all civil documentation for individual credits under the SITES rating system.

Photo credit ©Michael Lee