Final days on the construction site: California Ave., Palo Alto

I counted about 15 electricians, concrete workers, truck drivers and supervisors at this work site. They were scrambling  to complete the artist Michael Szabo‘s intricate design for the new plaza on California Ave.  The simple task of replacing a broken “bird bath” fountain got increasingly complex and finally led to a $7 million renovation project, which is nearing completion.

Confluence by Michael Szabo, waits to be unwrapped, Palo Alto.

Confluence,  a 14’ tall water sculpture (not a fountain) by Palo Alto native Michael Szabo, is the centerpiece of the new plaza. The wraps will be taken off on May 6. The old fountain lasted 50 years —It’s never easy to complete a public works project in Palo Alto— maybe the city should start planning the replacement for Confluence now?

Carto

In response to WordPress Weekly Photo Challenge: Intricate.

Post script: The project wrapped up as scheduled (hooray). The sculpture is in place and skateboarders are warned.

Skateboarders Beware — CalTrain Park, Palo Alto