Overview
The Three Lakes Park Improvements Project transformed one of Henrico County’s most beloved nature destinations into a more accessible, engaging, and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Serving as the landscape architect and civil engineer of record, Timmons Group led the planning, design, and implementation of comprehensive park and nature center improvements focused on enhancing visitor experience, expanding outdoor learning opportunities, and strengthening connections between people and nature.
Working closely with Henrico County, the project introduced a series of site enhancements designed to improve accessibility, circulation, and placemaking throughout the park. Improvements included ADA-compliant parking and pedestrian routes, enhanced plazas and gathering spaces, decorative lighting, native landscaping, a new restroom facility, and renovations to the Nature Center and pavilion. New overlook areas and outdoor education spaces create inviting destinations for exploration while providing opportunities for environmental interpretation and community engagement.
A defining feature of the project is its focus on experiential learning and nature-based play. The design incorporates custom interpretive play elements that tell the story of a frog’s life cycle, transforming environmental education into an interactive experience for children and families. Outdoor classrooms, nature exploration areas, and hands-on learning features encourage visitors to engage directly with the park’s ecosystems while fostering curiosity, discovery, and environmental stewardship.
