On December 2nd, Pompano Beach will become the first city in the United States to ignite a “Fountain Flame”. The initial lighting will take place during the monthly Old Town Untapped event across from Bailey Contemporary Arts in Old Town Pompano Beach. The dramatic display is set ablaze when propane is injected into the water, igniting into dazzling flames that dance atop the sprouting flumes of water. Kim Briesemeister and Chris Brown, founders of Redevelopment Management Associates, wanted to create a great public space ensuring a central gathering spot for reviving downtown. The technology, a nationwide first, is part of their transformation of Pompano Beach into a leader in innovation.
“Pompano Beach is quickly emerging as a national redevelopment model,” said Briesemeister. “The reinvention of the city is focused on securing the best of the STEAM disciplines, with a strong emphasis on blending art and technology. This “Fountain Flame,” located between three new arts venues, is an outstanding example of small towns setting the trends.”
The “Fountain Flame” technology was developed by OASE-Living Water, based in Germany. The Pompano Beach fountain will be the first that utilizes a low voltage ignitor to combine fire and water in a theatrical application in a public place. The fountain works by introducing high pressure propane gas into the stream of water. Once the propane is inside the stream, the low voltage ignitor ignites the propane stream in the water jet to start the fire show. The fountain also has numerous LED light displays which enhances the stunning visual effect.
RMA assembled a stellar construction and design team to certify and build the fountain. “Our vision wasn’t deterred when we were informed that it couldn’t be built in the US,” said Briesemeister. “Our team worked with national and local fire safety experts to create guidelines and obtain UL certification for this new technology.” As a safety precaution, the fountain is surrounded by infrared beams, if the plane is broken, the gas valve is shut off and the water and propane flow stops.
Burkhardt Construction is the contractor who led the streetscape improvements within Old Town. EDSA, a landscape architecture firm, led the overall design, hardscape layout and concept for the fountain. EDSA also led the multidisciplinary team of consultants for the project, includingHall Fountains, Delta G, Keith and Associates, and Mausen.
This month, Old Town Toasts the Holidays with a festive night including a special holiday performance by the 65 piece American Legion Symphonic Band, sponsored by Brightstar Credit Union and the Pompano Beach Chamber of Commerce.
Performances by Jazz great Randy Corinthian, acoustic music by Ike Woods, plus over 50 holiday vendors, food trucks, art displays, craft beer tastings, specialty drink, a scavenger hunt and much more. The event is free and open to the public. Lighting ceremony is scheduled for 7pm.
For more information contact Shanna Benson at 954-786-7824 or visit, www.pompanobeacharts.org
UPDATE: Check out our post-event photos at: www.facebook.com/pg/WeekendBroward/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1295178237170374
