Boyce Park Boulders
Project Summary:
In 2023, Boulder Solutions partnered with Allegheny Parks and Environmental Planning and Design to develop, design, and route-set a new artificial climbing wall at the Boyce Park Capital Improvement Project. The initiative was inspired by a study from the Pennsylvania Environmental Council and aims to provide a recreational climbing experience in Pennsylvania’s state parks.
Key Highlights:
Project Inspiration:
Pennsylvania Environmental Council’s study identified climbing as a growing, beneficial sport.
Allegheny Parks chose to invest in an artificial climbing structure to promote skill development in a natural, outdoor setting.
Design Concept:
Boulder Solutions proposed a modern bouldering wall design, similar to indoor climbing gyms.
The design focuses on routesetting—a method of creating varied, challenging problems—to enhance learning and climbing success.
This approach encourages regular use, as climbers can return to try new routes and improve their skills.
Design & Construction:
Boulder Solutions collaborated with Altline Studios to create climbing structures within the project’s budget using Walltopia climbing surfaces.
The final design included 6,700 square feet of climbing surface with over 100 individual boulder problems, catering to climbers of all ages and skill levels.
Boulder Solutions provided detailed technical specifications for the wall's fabrication, covering:
Wall grade, color, and finish
T-nut density and materials
Handhold selection
Project Management:
Boulder Solutions managed the project’s coordination, working closely with the general contractor and chosen wall manufacturer to ensure seamless construction.
Routesetting & Ongoing Support:
After the wall was constructed, Boulder Solutions provided the initial routesetting services, creating around 110 individual boulder problems.
Boulder Solutions continues to support the project with recurring routesetting and maintenance services through a direct contract with Allegheny Parks.
Outcomes:
The climbing wall offers a structured, skill-building environment for climbers of all levels, fostering a community for outdoor recreation.
The ongoing routesetting service ensures the wall remains fresh and challenging for climbers, enhancing long-term engagement.
This project represents a successful collaboration to bring cutting-edge climbing infrastructure to Pennsylvania's state parks, supporting the growth of climbing as a recreational sport.
