PRECEDENT IMAGES VISION The central Bench in Boise, Idaho is a lively community in motion. To continue enhancing this area, the connectivity of all systems throughout the community will be focused on creating links between transit, bicycle, and pedestrian routes within, as well as outside the bench. The plan will create energized and livable neighborhoods that will be connected to quality open spaces. Walkability and mobility within the bench area will be addressed by finding solutions to existing barriers.
SANTA FE TRAIL
HIGH LINE TRAIL
TRANSIT OPTIONS
ART
Key goals include: Connectivity, walkability, improved transit, and finding opportunities for more green space, while maintaining the safety and public welfare of Central Bench residents.
PROGRAM From our analysis we determined some key factors that need to be addressed for any design decision. These include disconnected uses, strong barriers, and a large amount of vacant spaces. Along with our overall vision for the Bench, looking at these issues will help form a program for the open space/connectivity of the Central Bench. By developing and implementing these program elements we believe our vision of creating friendly, well connected open spaces can be achieved. Users • Refugee Community • Commuters to/from Downtown • Greenbelt Users • Families Living within the Bench • Neighborhood Residents • Visitors to the Central Bench ELEMENTS • Inner district bus route • Transit center for commuters • Bike rentals • Therapeutic and Community Gardens • Improved Pedestrian and Bike infrastructure • Options for new parks • Recreation Center • Improved Mobility • Dog Park
The Santa Fe Railway shows the possibilities of integrating a mixed use path with an existing and functional railroad system. The railroad system and right-of-way along Franklin Rd. could be blended in a similar way.
The High Line trail in New York is a prime example of reclaiming an old and deteriorating rail line and turning it into a vibrant path connecting to city to it’s past. The trail spans about 1.5 miles and was modeled after the Promenade Plantee, a 3 mile long trail along an abandoned railroad in Paris, France
These illustrate a few transit alternatives that we may deal with. Namely: Bus rapid Transit, Commuter Rail, and multi-use paths. There are going to be situations where the paths are going to have to cross some of the streets without disrupting traffic too much, but also keeping users safe
Art and sculpture can be used as a connector to tie different areas together, as well as connecting the new development to the existing and industrial uses.
DESIGNING A VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF THE BOISE CENTRAL BENCH
OPEN SPACE AND CONNECTIVITY
UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY LAEP 4100 - 10/28/2015 - PROFESSOR: CAROLINE LAVOIE - T.A.: TANYA RICE - TEAM: NATHAN CLARKE - BRYAN WILSON - JASON PARKINSON - JARED HIATT