Owner: Baltimore City Recreation & Parks
Developer: Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation
Architect: JMT Architecture (formerly Gadreau, Inc.)
Civil Engineer: Timmons Group
Structural Engineer: Skarda and Associates Structural Consultants, Inc.
General Contractor: The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
D.W. Kozera, Inc. (DWK) provided geotechnical investigation, design recommendations, and construction observation and testing for the “Mimi” DiPietro Family Skating Center and the Eugene “Utz” Twardowicz Field. These key features within Baltimore’s historic Patterson Park included the construction of a reinforced concrete mat foundation to support a new indoor ice rink and the installation of a multi-purpose turf field.
The geotechnical investigation revealed variable Man-placed Fill soils to depths of nearly 20 feet. To address the challenges posed by these uncontrolled fill layers, DWK recommended a cost-effective reinforced mat foundation. This economical solution minimized settlement risks while avoiding the higher costs associated with deep foundation systems or undercut and replacement techniques. DWK also delivered construction phase testing and observation to facilitate the successful execution of the project.
The skating center, combined with the updated turf field, enhanced the park’s functionality and community appeal. DWK’s was proud to provide geotechnical services that played a role in helping to transform the site into a cherished recreational hub for Baltimore residents.
This is the building and field in the park from this case study.