Detroit City Plan and Improvement Commission

In November 1913 the Olmsted Brothers published the Preliminary Report on the Program for James Scott Fountain. Prepared for the Detroit City Plan and Improvement Commission, the report discussed the plan for the construction of the fountain and beautification of the surrounding area. In honor of Detroit resident and benefactor, James Scott, a competition was held to determine the design of the fountain. It was to be located on the waterfront of Belle Isle (00661). As Belle Isle bridge connected the island to mainland Detroit, the firm suggested the replacement of the bridge as well and communicated the need for the acquisition of additional land. They asked that the “competitors should study and show proper means of utilizing all the arrangements that actually exist between the bridge and the lower end of the island.” [Preliminary Report on a Program for the James Scott Fountain_11-1913_LOC-OAR-B-06043_im.9]

The fountain was ultimately designed by Herbert Adams. See job 00664