City of Rochester Rundel Library North Terrace

Constructed in 1937, the original north terrace of the National Register designated Rundel Library was selected for renovation as part of the ROC the Riverway program. Located at the east bank of the Genesee River, this project will enable Rochester to better leverage the value of its riverfront.

This ROC the Riverway project removed existing steel framing and a multi-layer concrete deck, replacing it with new foundations and concrete framing extending 25 feet below the surface to bedrock.

The structural concrete slab is topped by layers of waterproofing, a drainage mat, geofoam, a crushed stone sub-base, and a concrete wearing surface. The slab supports new granite planters and terraced seating creating an amphitheater with a cantilevered steel-framed river overlook.

Colored bands in the surface outline the paths of the former subway that existed after the canal was no longer used. A public art gateway sculpture, water play table, carved seating, and a lighted serpentine runnel provide additional interpretive features.