Boyce Bouldering Park and Pump Track

Allegheny County, Pennsylvania

A picture showing a close up view of the pump track at Boyce Park. A picture of a person using the climbing wall at Boyce Park. Boyce Park Pump Track and Climbing Wall A picture of a person using the bicycle pump track at Boyce Park. An aerial image of the Boyce Park Climbing Facility. Boyce Park Rain Garden Boyce Park Climbing Wall Being Used An aerial picture of the Boyce Park Climbing Facility and Pump Track. A picture of a person using the bicycle pump track at Boyce Park.

Services

Market Study
Site Analysis/Site Planning
Park Program Development
Site Design and Construction Documentation
3D Visualization
Sustainable Design
Planting Design
Cost Estimation
Project Team Management

Client

Allegheny County Department of Parks

Project Description

GOAL: To develop and design a series of concepts for a proposed climbing facility at Boyce Park and assist with the construction administration and documentation.

 

In 2018, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council commissioned a study pertaining to the historically low participation of non-Caucasian populations in many outdoor recreational activities such as climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, camping, etc. Following the study recommendations, the Allegheny County Department of Parks retained EPD to develop a schematic design for a “gravity destination” in Boyce Park. The destination integrates bouldering, BMX riding, and pump track-oriented improvements with an existing skateboard complex. Additionally, the destination is 100% universally accessible – inclusive to all individuals no matter their physical means, abilities or skill levels.

After developing the schematic design, EPD partnered with H.F. Lenz Company and Boulder Solutions to provide additional expertise in surveying, stormwater design, utility engineering, boulder design, route setting, and structural engineering. The EPD Team prepared construction documents, permit drawings/applications, bid documents for implementation, and construction administrative services.

The project was completed in October 2024 and is reportedly the largest no-charge, public outdoor climbing facility in the United States. Moreover, the pump track has been endorsed by Trail Pittsburgh and Team Red Bull.