Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

KNOWLEDGE PARK CONNECTIVITY MASTER PLAN City of Rock Hill, South Carolina Final Report | May 2018

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Advisory Committee

David Lawrence, Economic + Urban Development, City of Rock Hill (Staff) Jeff Perez, Winthrop University Matt Dosch, Downtown Business Interests Beverly Carroll, Public Parks + Rec Commission Dawn Johnson, African American Cultural Resources Gary Williams, University Center Martin Goode, Downtown Neighborhood Association Joe Lanford, Knowledge Park Leadership Group Duane Neff, Rick Lee,

Bike/Pedestrian Task Force

Resident

Anthony Smith, Freedom Temple Ministries Consultant Team

Jo Steele, Trails/Greenways Commission Joe Holloway,

Baxter Mill (Springs Creative)

Teresa Gaston, Hagins Fewell Neighborhood Association 2

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The City of Rock Hill and its partners commissioned a master planning study to address critical missing links in the existing pedestrian and bicyclist network and develop a plan for future development in Knowledge Park, with the intention of building upon previous

plans and recommendations to improve walkability + mobility options in Rock Hill.

This study evaluates existing conditions of the Knowledge Park area, and makes recommendations that improve overall connectivity and the challenging crossing

of Dave Lyle Boulevard. This plan aims to maximize Knowledge Park’s potential as a key node of the community’s active transportation network and support economic development as the City grows.

Recommendations can be summarized into the following list: Complete Streets + Placemaking

COMPLETE STREET + NETWORK IMPROVEMENTS

• On-street infrastructure (sidewalk improvements, bike lane, bike boulevard) • Shared-use path connections • Alleyway connections + new street network • Crossing improvements: intersections + midblock • Concepts for block redevelopment

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE Pedestrian Bridge Concept

• Priority location + bridge type • Cost estimates for bridge type

PLACEMAKING + ACTIVATION • Wayfinding + brand enhancement • Iconic features • Streetscape enhancements • Gateway treatments

The planning process included a 3-day design workshop open to the public. The charrette was an integral part of the design process; public + stakeholder feedback informed opportunities and constraints for Rock Hill and helped the client and community form a shared vision for Knowledge Park connectivity.

PLAN VISION

NOTE:

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Bike share location

Build on Work Already Completed for Rock Hill

• Compiling previous recommendations + simplifying into one comprehensive, connected network

Multi-use path through University Center

Enhance Knowledge Park + Rock Hill Brand

Winston Searles Trail Extension

• Iconic bridge structures that fit within the context of the community • Gateways that visually connect key neighborhoods within the City + reinforce sense of place

Pedestrian bridge over railroad

Balance Multimodal Needs of All Users + Improve Connectivity

• Implement on + off-street bike facilities • Wider sidewalks + more safe crossing locations throughout Knowledge Park area • Connectivity that accommodates the existing railroad and can be modified when trains block major corridors

Develop a Realistic, Buildable Plan

• Engineer-reviewed cost estimates • Recommendations are flexible + easily adapted to existing + future easements/proposed development 4

Festival street

Multi-use path behind Cotton Factory

Crossing improvements

Pedestrian bridge with ramp + stairs

Drop-off location/ roundabout Pedestrian bridge

Potential road diet + bike lane improvements

Trade St Pocket Park Widen sidewalk along Dave Lyle Freedom Walkway Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS • The City should plan for development of a pedestrian/bicycle bridge over Dave Lyle Boulevard and the Norfolk Southern rail line midblock on Dave Lyle Boulevard between Main Street and White Street.

• The recommended bridge type is a prefabricated truss bridge with elevators or new development on either end (see page 46).

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• The City should seek to obtain rights of way or easements for future construction of a second pedestrian/ bicycle bridge over Dave Lyle Boulevard located near the existing railroad trestle over Dave Lyle Boulevard in front of the Cotton Factory.

• Many/most pedestrians will prefer to use at-grade crossings of Dave Lyle Boulevard and the Norfolk Southern rail line, except when trains are present. The at-grade crossings at Main Street and White Street should be redesigned and improved (areas of refuge, pavement markings, traffic calming, etc.) for pedestrian safety and comfort (see page 32 and 39 for more information).

• Pedestrian and bicycle traffic should be directed to streets where economic development investments are desired. This means a strong focus on making West Main Street and West White Street attractive and friendly to pedestrians and cyclists. It also means that pedestrian/bicycle plan should direct pedestrians and cyclists using the pedestrian/bicycle bridge to return to the adjacent streets after using the bridge.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS • The pedestrian/bicycle system should integrate with and support the new electric bus system.

• The pedestrian/bicycle bridge and the associated pedestrian and bicycle systems of Knowledge Park should reflect the Knowledge Park brand in their iconic design, signage, wayfinding, street furnishings, artwork and other amenities (see pages 50-51).

• Special attention should be given to the design of gateways into the Knowledge Park pedestrian/bicycle zone at key locations (see page 54 for more information): • Stewart Ave/Winthrop University • Wilson St at White, Laurel + Main • Dave Lyle Blvd at White St, pedestrian/bicycle bridge + Main St

• Improvements to streets should be completed to make them safe, attractive and functional for cars and buses, pedestrians and cyclists. Such streets are known as “complete streets.” Improvements are recommended for the following streets (see Recommendations chapter): • Black St • Main St • Peachtree St + Peachtree Ext • White St • Wilson St • Oakland Ave

• There is a need for a well-defined pedestrian/ bicycle network in the core of downtown in the block bounded by Dave Lyle Boulevard, Main Street, Caldwell Street and White Street. This network should also connect to the former Good Motors site as it undergoes future redevelopment.

Complete Streets Concepts

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

CITY COUNCIL + ADVISORY COMMITTEE INPUT Preferred Bridge Option:

After reviewing the plan recommendations and probable costs, the City Council and advisory committee recommended the bridge at Peachtree Extension as their preferred option.

• Elevators should be large enough to accommodate bicycles, strollers, wheelchairs, + several pedestrians • Consider bridge/elevator designs which are open, possibly glass + well-lit to promote safety.

Feedback from Advisory Committee: • Movement at-grade will continue to be the primary method for cyclists + pedestrians, therefore, improvements to intersections + streetscapes are important.

• Wayfinding will enable people (+ visitors) to move about safely, enjoyably + efficiently.

• Connectivity improvements should support and/ or stimulate economic development; the midblock crossing gives the greatest ability to impact economic development.

• Even though not first priority bridge, easements/ rights-of-way should be obtained to potentially build the bridge connecting Cotton Factory + former Good Motors 7

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

TABLE OF CONTENTS 09 Project Overview 13 Current Plans + Projects 17 The Vision 25 Recommendations 55 Appendix

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Opportunities at Knowledge Park

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

PROJECT BACKGROUND + GOALS

Knowledge Park is poised to be a dynamic center of Rock Hill’s new economy. With a focus on technology, the development can literally + figuratively bridge the gap between the University’s historic campus and downtown Rock Hill’s southern charm and growing economy. Knowledge Park provides opportunities to revitalize adjacent residential neighborhoods, redevelop industrial/textile buildings, as well as provide new housing for a growing workforce and for students.

As the Rock Hill region continues to grow, safe streets and the ability to walk or bike have the potential to serve as critical elements of a booming economy and urban development, granting Rock Hill residents access to a wide variety of jobs, services, + destinations without needing a vehicle. A comprehensive active transportation network is central to economic development in the community – walking + biking access to Winthrop University, downtown, and destinations in Knowledge Park are all considerations residents, visitors, workers, and businesses value. To that end, the City of Rock Hill, Knowledge Park, and associated stakeholders commissioned this master planning effort.

PROJECT GOALS • Increase the level of interest in vacant/underutilized sites + buildings located in Knowledge Park by connecting them better to other activity, investment, and density.

• Encourage pedestrians + cyclists to move throughout Knowledge Park for work, education, play, and living by providing corridors which are more safe, interesting, and efficient. Develop solutions which address the inability to cross the railroad and Dave Lyle Boulevard.

• Capitalize on the opportunity to create a brand/iconic statement for the City of Rock Hill utilizing a proposed bridge crossing over Dave Lyle Boulevard/railroad.

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This Connectivity Master Plan will address these goals and help the City of Rock Hill plan, prioritize, and ultimately implement a high-quality, safe, and equitable transportation system that focuses on options. It will also help the City refine supporting policy, program, and funding strategies to ensure the vision for a safe, healthy and economically inclusive city.

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

OPPORTUNITIES

Winthrop University

Build on the work already completed for Knowledge Park University Center

Design a grade-separated crossing across Dave Lyle Blvd R NO ER

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Strengthen network of safe bike + pedestrian connections

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Public + private partnerships/funding M

Old Town

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STUDY AREA

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Build on City and Knowledge Park “brands”

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Enhance existing at-grade crossings at Dave Lyle Blvd

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Fountain Park 11

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

CHALLENGES Limited grade-separated crossings Norfolk Southern Rail + SCDOT coordination Impacts to existing + planned development ADA/accessibility (ramps, elevators, + connections) Avoiding “two downtowns�

Funding + timeline

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

CURRENT PLANS + PROJECTS

Current plans & projects that inform Connectivity recommendations

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

College Town Action Plan

Laurelwood Story Garden

Master plans previously completed for Rock Hill College Town Area Bike + Ped Plan

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

University Center Development

TIF Districts for Project Funding

Ongoing projects + future development in Rock Hill West Main-West Black Master Plan Proposed Bus Network Rock Hill Bike + Ped Master Plan

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

Wilson St Circulation Plan

Caldwell St Pedestrian Plan

Ongoing projects + future development in Rock Hill Downtown Traffic Management Plan

Oakland Avenue Streetscape Plan 16

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

THE VISION

Aligning current planning efforts, new development, + community priorities to identify implementation-focused strategies

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

DESIGN FOR CONNECTIVITY Connect Winthrop University + University Center to Old Town

Bridge gaps in bike + pedestrian network KNOWLEDGE PARK

Implement gateways + visual cues to connect key areas in Rock Hill

STUDY AREA FOUNTAIN PARK

NOTE: 1/4 mile = 1320 feet = 5 min walk 18

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

DESIGN FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Existing Conditions at White St, facing north

Streetscape enhancements + new development on White St

Festival Street Concept

Date:

6/11/2015

Art Walk Festival Street |Denton, Maryland

University Center

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Dave Lyle Blvd at White St

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

DESIGN FOR ICONIC STRUCTURES + SPACES

Existing Conditions at Dave Lyle Blvd

Proposed bridge mimics iconic Fountain Park geometry and creates a memorable gateway into downtown Rock Hill.

Fountain Park

Freedom Walkway

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

PROPOSED OUTCOMES Thriving development opportunities Vibrant + diverse public spaces Enhanced brand of Winthrop, University Center, + Old Town Striking iconic statement into downtown Rock Hill Opportunities to promote innovation Opportunities to support a multimodal transportation system

(electric buses, automobiles, ridesharing, bikeshare, bicycling, + pedestrian movement)

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

THE PLANNING PROCESS

Stakeholder meetings + walking tours to discuss solutions 3-day workshop (charrette) with nightly pin-up sessions On-site design with public input as a guide Final presentation to show conceptual recommendations on last night + receive feedback The charrette was an integral part of the design process. Public + stakeholder feedback informed opportunities and constraints and helped the consultant team, client, and community form a shared vision for Knowledge Park connectivity.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

WHO WE HEARD FROM...

• 80+ residents and stakeholders • Knowledge Park Leadership Group • Developers • Property Owners • Winthrop University • City + County (PRT) staff and department heads • Local church (Central Emmanuel AME) • Walk to Campus, Inc. • Comporium • African American Business Council • Commissions: Parks, Economic Development, etc.

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The workshop consisted of consultant team, in collaboration with the Alta team and key stakeholders, developing preliminary recommendations in an open studio environment. Staff + stakeholders were invited to provide input and participation at key meeting times + were able to actively participate or drop-in to the open studio work sessions.

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

WHAT WE HEARD From Council

From Public + Stakeholders

• Bridge the gap from Winthrop to Downtown (safely cross Dave Lyle Blvd) • Economic development • Improved streetscapes • Active public spaces • Provide fiscally feasible recommendations • Consider multiple options

“Make place LOVAB LE”

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• Serve destinations + new development • Walking + biking connections • Connect across Dave Lyle Blvd • Provide for multimodal options: car access, parking, transit, bike share, shuttles, shared vehicles, etc.

• Make streetscapes + corridors great • Expand + connect open space/public space: cemetery, plazas, parks, fitness access, etc.

• Include placemaking: public art, wayfinding, gateways, history, streetscapes

n g i s e d e h “Make t k c o R L L A o t r e t t a m ” s t n e d i s e Hill r

“Include amenities for a Knowledge Economy”

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

RECOMMENDATIONS

Design recommendations + connectivity solutions for Knowledge Park

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

THE MASTER PLAN Using the initial designs developed as part of the charrette and input received from the public and stakeholders, the consultant team refined and added detail to the proposed concepts to develop the final recommendations for the Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan. The recommendations include a series of complete streets and pedestrian network improvements, as well as options for a pedestrian bridge crossing that will enhance connectivity across Dave Lyle Blvd.

In addition to network recommendations, a set of placemaking + activation recommendations are included to guide future development in Rock Hill, support the the unique identity of the area, and improve the user experience.

Winthrop University Future Development

University Center Old Town Dave Lyle

ACTION PLAN

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

• Priority location + bridge type • Cost estimates for bridge type

COMPLETE STREET + NETWORK IMPROVEMENTS

• On-street infrastructure (sidewalk improvements, bike lane, bike boulevard) • Shared-use path connections • Alleyway connections + new street network • Crossing improvements: intersections + midblock • Concepts for block redevelopment

PLACEMAKING + ACTIVATION

• Wayfinding + brand enhancement • Iconic features • Streetscape enhancements • Gateway treatments 26

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

THE MASTER PLAN

NOTE:

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Bike share location

This is the overall Master Plan for Knowledge Park. It includes infrastructure and placemaking recommendations that are detailed in the following pages.

Multi-use path through University Center

Pedestrian bridge over railroad

Winston Searles Trail Extension Winston Searles Trail

Pedestrian bridge

Festival street

Multi-use path behind Cotton Factory

Festival street

Drop-off location/ roundabout

Pedestrian bridge with ramp + stairs Pedestrian bridge Trade St Pocket Park

reet |Denton, Maryland

Potential road diet + bike lane improvements Streetscape

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Widen sidewalk along Dave Lyle Freedom Walkway Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

IMPROVED PEDESTRIAN, BICYCLE, + COMPLETE STREET NETWORK

• Easily-navigated grid system through Knowledge Park • Pedestrian + bicycle improvements on existing streets • New bridge, + multi-use path connections • New street + alleyway connections at the Wilson/White/Dave Lyle super block • Improved primary connections between Winthrop, downtown, and Knowledge Park with North/South connectors • Black St • Main St • Peachtree Extension • White St • Ebenezer Ave • Oakland Ave

Pedestrian bridge

Pedestrian bridge

• New + improved East/West connectors link to main North/South connectors NOTE:

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Bike share location 28

Comporium Bike Share Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

CORRIDOR RECOMMENDATIONS The following section summarizes highpriority streetscape recommendations for major corridors in the study area, organized west to east.

On-Street Facilities

• Bike lanes, buffered bike lanes, bike boulevards • Widened sidewalks where space is available • Intersection improvements + highvisibility crosswalks at midblocks

Off-Street Facilities

Pedestrian bridge

Pedestrian bridge

• Meandering multi-use path for cyclists + pedestrians

NOTE:

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Bike share location 29

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

MAIN ST

Mixed-use development activates Main St and encourages people to be there without creating a competing route (along Peachtree or elsewhere) New street/alleyway connection through block (Peachtree Extension)

5’ bike lanes with 2’ buffer along both sides of Main St

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

MAIN ST

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

MAIN ST

(Above) Existing conditions at Main Street and Dave Lyle Boulevard.

(Left) Proposed lane diet and buffered bike lanes.

Streetscape improvements include wide sidewalks lined with brick pavers, street trees, and planters along Main Street.

Simulation is shown with future mixed-use buildings lining either side of the street. On-street parking could also be considered on this block.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

PEACHTREE EXTENSION + NEW CONNECTIONS

Festival street along Peachtree

Crossing improvements across Wilson St New mixed-use development

East/west alleyways connecting to new street Street trees along new street (Peachtree Extension) Drop-off location/ roundabout Pedestrian bridge

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

PEACHTREE EXTENSION + NEW CONNECTIONS Peachtree is a great candidate for a festival street, connecting Laurelwood Cemetery to new development + downtown via a new pedestrian bridge. Festival streets have sidewalks level with the road + function as pedestrian plazas for special events.

Laurelwood Cemetery

Festival Street Concept

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

WILSON ST Midblock crossing

Crossing improvements

11’ travel lanes with 12’ center turn lane 4’ bike lanes along both sides of Wilson St

Crossing improvements across Wilson St

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

WILSON ST

Wilson St Circulation Plan

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

WILSON ST

(Above) Existing conditions at Wilson Street.

(Left) Proposed lane diet, 4’ bike lanes and center turn lane. Circulation plan is designed by SCDOT.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

WHITE ST Sidewalk widened to 10’

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Mixed-use development activates White St and encourages people to be there without creating a competing route (along Peachtree or elsewhere)

Midblock crossing

New mixed-use development along White St

Pedestrian bridge

Alleyways connecting to new street (Peachtree Extension)

Extend multi-use path east of White St along Dave Lyle Blvd Crossing improvements at White St + Dave Lyle Blvd

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

WHITE ST

People will continue to utilize the shortest/most direct route between two points; often that route is at grade and across road intersections.

Streetscape + crossing improvements should be made at key intersections (White + Dave Lyle, Main + Dave Lyle) to improve the safety + comfort of pedestrians + bicyclists.

Improved Intersection

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

WHITE ST

(NEW DEVELOPMENT AND STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS)

(Above) Existing conditions at White Street.

(Left) Proposed conditions show wider sidewalks lined with brick pavers, street trees, and enhanced pedestrian lighting. Future development includes a brewery at the Cotton Factory.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

WHITE ST

(NEW DEVELOPMENT AND STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS)

(Above) Existing conditions at White Street.

(Left) Proposed conditions include wider sidewalks lined with brick pavers and street trees in a landscaped buffer.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

EBENEZER/OAKLAND + RAILROAD Bike share station D AN KL OA

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“Green-backed� sharrows enhance the visibility of this section of the bike network since there is not currently room for separate bike facilities.

Bike boulevard with green sharrows

Multi-use trail + bridge approach with street trees

Pedestrian bridge

Trade St Pocket Park

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE ACROSS DAVE LYLE BLVD The proposed grade-separated crossing(s) would allow pedestrians and cyclists to get across Dave Lyle Blvd completely separated from vehicular traffic, minimizing conflicts with cars and trains and supporting foot traffic between Knowledge Park and downtown (Old Town). A new bridge would span over the existing Norfolk Southern Railroad and existing Dave Lyle Blvd.

Norfolk Southern Railroad will likely require the new bridge structure accommodate additional track(s) for their future use. A 25-foot horizontal setback from the track centerline (existing or future) is typically required by the railroad to any structural elements supporting the bridge, unless a crash wall is provided.

WHY A BRIDGE? Connectivity

Concept development for the new separated-grade crossing(s) included the following: • Determining a preferred bridge location; and • Analyzing different bridge designs and their associated massing impacts and cost implications.

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Economic Development

Sense of Place

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

BRIDGE LOCATIONS

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Option 1 Location (Existing Conditions)

1 DAVE L YL

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Option 2 Location (Existing Conditions)

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Option 1

Crossing Dave Lyle at city-owned development (Peachtree Extension)

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Option 2

Crossing Dave Lyle at Village, parallel to Norfolk Southern

The bridge location(s) present the challenge of getting up to the elevation to provide the 23-foot minimum vertical clearance required E by the railroad. To meet requirements set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) a maximum grade of 5% is allowed at the bridge approaches, assuming a low-profile propriety steel truss and existing topography. This requires between 300-500 feet of approach ramps to obtain the required vertical clearance. Long tangent ramps or a switch back ramp system could be used at each bridge approach. An elevator and stair system could also be used for the Option 1 bridge to minimize right-of-way impacts.

DAVE L YL

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

CITY COUNCIL + ADVISORY COMMITTEE BRIDGE ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS DESIRED ATTRIBUTES Direct development opportunities Located within established activity centers Good visual access (iconic display) Legal entanglements Cooperative land owners Affordable cost

BRIDGE PARALLEL TO NORFOLK SOUTHERN (OPTION 2)

Yes, 2

Yes, 1

Yes

Not as much

Yes, all directions

No, blocked by train trestle coming from I-77

Yes (sight line easement)

No

City/The Herald

York County/Cotton Factory

$2.7-4 million (bridge with elevators)

$3.7-4.8 million (with favorable grades)

BRIDGE LOCATION

Option 1 Location

DAVE L YL

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BRIDGE AT PEACHTREE EXTENSION (OPTION 1)

The city council + advisory committee analyzed the two bridge location options to decide on the highest priority location for Rock Hill. The bridge at Peachtree Extension (Option 1) offers a more centralized location to Old Town + creates a more significant gateway for the city.

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

CITY COUNCIL + ADVISORY COMMITTEE BRIDGE ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS DESIRED ATTRIBUTES Affordable cost Positively impact development sites Ability to make iconic statement

Precedent Example

LAND BRIDGE (RAMP APPROACH)

PREFABRICATED BRIDGE (ELEVATOR APPROACH)

Much higher (est. $9.2-11.5 million)

Lower (est. $2.7-4.8 million)

No, divides the sites on either side + consumes real estate

Yes, integrate into new development, smaller footprint

Yes

Yes

BRIDGE DESIGN A prefabricated bridge with elevator approaches is significantly more affordable + takes up less space on either side. A land bridge was ruled out as an option due to its high cost + large footprint.

See Appendix for more information on bridge types and costs.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

BRIDGE AT PEACHTREE EXT.

Site easement limits

PREFERRED BRIDGE + FUTURE DEVELOPMENT WITH EXISTING WELLS FARGO SITE EASEMENTS 47

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

BRIDGE AT PEACHTREE EXT.

PREFERRED BRIDGE + FUTURE DEVELOPMENT WITHOUT WELLS FARGO SITE EASEMENTS 48

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

PLACEMAKING + ACTIVATION One of the most important functions of the Rock Hill brand is to provide a cohesive look and feel for materials and messaging throughout the entire city, not just in one area.

Facility improvements in Knowledge Park should not only aim to connect the many vibrant areas of Rock Hill by strengthening the walkability network between neighborhoods, but should also enhance the Rock Hill brand with cohesive visual cues. Just as the logo has become symbolic of the City, public space elements become the breadcrumbs of recognizable forms, patterns, texture, color, and rhythm that contribute to a consistent brand expression of safety, comfort, legibility, and community pride. Because the city includes a variety of sub-areas (Knowledge Park, Winthrop University, downtown), it is essential to provide a pattern of experiences that reflect the brands and context of each area within Rock Hill.

This section summarizes design initiatives and other recommendations that support consistent brand expression and visual connectivity throughout Knowledge Park and downtown.

Initiatives include gateway treatments, streetscape activation, and wayfinding.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

BRAND ENHANCEMENT Improvements should take advantage of opportunities to brand Knowledge Park and/or Rock Hill by incorporating iconic features, familiar color themes, and branded icons, into design elements where feasible.

WAYFINDING Developing a consistent city-wide wayfinding system will improve the walking and biking experience in Rock Hill and facilitate more walking and biking trips. Signage should provide information on the direction and distance to key regional destinations, neighborhoods, and transit hubs. A coordinated, well-designed signage system improves the coherency of a pedestrian network. It also provides a greater sense of security and comfort for users by confirming that walkers and bikers are on the correct route and are aware of how far they will have to travel to reach their destination. On-street wayfinding signs also provide visual cues to motorists that pedestrians and cyclists may be present and should drive with caution.

Possible Wayfinding Destinations

(Above) Example of downtown wayfinding system in Wichita, KS. Source: Alta Planning + Design

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• Winthrop University • Knowledge Park • Friendship College • Comporium • Bike Share Docking Stations • Laurelwood Cemetery • Downtown (Old Town) • Fountain Park • Stadium Park • Freedom Walkway • York County Visitors Center

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

ICONIC FEATURES Fountain Park

(Above) Existing conditions at Dave Lyle Boulevard, between Main + White Street.

(Left) Proposed pedestrian bridge.

Modern form represents Rock Hill’s knowledge-based brand + references curvilinear shapes found in Fountain Park structures.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

ICONIC FEATURES

(Above) Existing conditions at Norfolk Southern railroad, across Dave Lyle Boulevard.

(Left) Proposed bridge.

• Bridge is an extension of multiuse path behind the Cotton Factory • Modern LED lighting + painted ground plane enhances Knowledge Park branding • Industrial design celebrates rail history 52

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

ACTIVATING THE STREETSCAPES

Precedent Example

• Friendly alleyways + improved streetscapes connect key areas of Knowledge Park to Old Town • Brick pavers, wide paths, pedestrian-scaled lights, and other design details are visually interesting and welcoming to pedestrians (see precedent example, right) • Prominent gateways provide visual cues to those entering key areas • Future mixed-use development between University Center and Old Town will provide a necessary, easily walkable connection with numerous destinations along the way that will encourage people to be there

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

5 GATEWAY OPPORTUNITIES Gateway treatments signalize a transition from one neighborhood or community setting to another. They gives cues that a person is entering a special area and can help with navigating a new place. Implementing prominent gateways along the perimeters of different sub-areas of Rock Hill will provide a strong return of investment from the dramatic experience improvements realized for visitors and residents.

HIGH PRIORITY GATEWAY TREATMENTS Winthrop University Gateway

Existing Conditions

• Visual connection from Winthrop to the rest of Knowledge Park • Improve crossing across Norfolk Southern

Dave Lyle Blvd Gateways

• Intersection of Peachtree Extension x Dave Lyle and White x Dave Lyle • Bridge with logo and colors integrated could be an iconic gateway treatment for pedestrians on it and vehicles passing under it 54

Fountain Park Comporium Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

APPENDIX

More information and design considerations for the Master Plan

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

BRIDGE DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Determining the appropriate bridge approach and span type is influenced by a variety of factors, such as:

Availability of land (bridge approaches must meet ADA-accessible grade standards, which may require more land acquisition for longer ramps)

Cost implications Long-term maintenance requirements Ability to make iconic statement for the community + function as a gateway to Rock Hill Ability to positively impact development of adjacent land uses The following section summarizes the process of choosing a bridge approach and bridge span design using these factors as a guide. When modeling different bridge approaches, the consultant team used the Option 1 location (Peachtree Extension) to determine the impacts on land use and future development.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

1. RETAINING WALL + PIER APPROACH While expensive, elevated structure and retaining wall options can be used to minimize the footprint of the approaches. Elevated structure would allow users to pass beneath the approaches. Piers can be placed as necessary to avoid impacts to existing features but it is generally more cost-effective to use shorter spans in the range of 50’-75’. Elevated structures are typically more expensive than retaining walls. To give users a convenient access point, stairs may also be used in combination with a ramp system (elevated structure and retaining walls).

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

2. LAND BRIDGE / EMBANKMENT APPROACH This is the most expensive bridge type.

Approach ramps may consist of either elevated structure, retaining wall or embankment.

Embankment is generally the most cost-effective option, but requires a considerable footprint of land to maintain stable side slopes for the required grade raise. This impact is not desirable at this location as it impedes future development opportunities.

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Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

3. ELEVATOR / STAIR SYSTEM APPROACH The lowest required space for the approach would be an elevator + stair system which can be done cost-effectively, but requires considerable long-term maintenance costs + has more liability for the City of Rock Hill. Because of this, an elevator + stair system would ultimately be more costly over the life span of the bridge. An elevator + stair system also may not conveniently serve large groups of cyclists and are prone to vandalism, graffiti + service concerns.

However, there may be some cost efficiencies if the system can also be tied into future parking structures.

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Another option for getting users up to grade would be to tie the bridge into future development such as parking decks. This would require careful coordination between the parking deck and bridge designers in the preliminary design phase of the project.

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

OVERVIEW OF BRIDGE DESIGN OPTIONS + COST ESTIMATION The cost of the proposed bridge will be highly dependent on the selected structure type. Pre-engineered proprietary steel trusses tend to be the most cost-effective option for anticipated span lengths. This structure type is often the solution selected by the project owner on similar projects.

Proprietary truss vendors have a variety of truss styles and finish options (painted, low-maintenance weathering steel, galvanized).

enhancements at a lower cost. If there is a desire, a true signature bridge could be provided. However, it should be noted the span lengths at this crossing do not necessitate advanced structure types.

Signature bridges are one of a kind and often feature elements of advanced design and construction techniques such as cables stay and post-tensioned concrete. These construction techniques are very specialized and are considerably more expensive than conventional bridge Another cost-effective option would be a construction techniques. The design stringer bridge which is a similar structure phase will require careful planning if a type as most typical highway overpasses. signature bridge is proposed. Signature bridges could also feature unique Custom hand railings and finishes could elements such as plantings placed on the be added to a stringer bridge to give bridge to create a land bridge experience a unique appearance with aesthetic

for users. A land bridge would support a considerably higher design load due to the high weight of soil and plantings.

It would also require a deeper structure depth which would increase the length of the approach ramps. For this study order of magnitude costs are provided for a truss option with approach ramps, truss option with elevators and land bridge to show how the expected project costs compare.

The following cost estimates describe the potential low and high construction costs associated with 3 bridge types: conventional prefabricated truss with stairs and elevators, conventional prefabricated truss with ramps and stairs, and a land bridge.

Prefabricated bridge options with custom details

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CONVENTIONAL PREFABRICATED TRUSS WITH 2 ELEVATORS MAIN BRIDGE SPAN

NORTHERN APPROACH STRUCTURE (WINTHROP SIDE)

SOUTHERN APPROACH STRUCTURE (DOWNTOWN SIDE)

POTENTIAL COST: LOW $1,000,000.00

$500,000.00

POTENTIAL COST: HIGH $1,500,000.00

*Note: Costs exclude right of way, utility relocation, + insurance

1

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STAIRS

OPERATING + MAINTENANCE COSTS (PER YEAR)

DESIGN + PERMITTING

TOTAL*

$500,000.00

$100,000.00

$20,000.00

$600,000.00

$2,720,000.00

$750,000.00

$750,000.00

$200,000.00

$30,000.00

$800,000.00

$4,030,000.00

LENGTH

200 LF

650 LF

450 LF

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

TYPE

Prefab Truss

Elevator

Elevator

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

Precedent Example

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

CONVENTIONAL PREFABRICATED TRUSS *Note: Costs exclude right of way, utility relocation, + insurance

MAIN BRIDGE SPAN

POTENTIAL COST: LOW

$1,000,000.00

$960,000.00

POTENTIAL COST: HIGH

$1,500,000.00

LENGTH TYPE

2

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NORTHERN SOUTHERN APPROACH APPROACH STRUCTURE STRUCTURE (WINTHROP SIDE) (DOWNTOWN SIDE)

PAVED TRAIL + INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS

DESIGN + PERMITTING

TOTAL

$800,000.00

$91,500.00

$800,000.00

$3,651,500.00

$1,200,000.00

$1,000,000.00

$120,000.00

$1,000,000.00

$4,820,000.00

200 LF

300 LF

250 LF

n/a

n/a

n/a

Prefabricated Truss

Trestle

Trestle

n/a

n/a

n/a

Precedent Example

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

LAND BRIDGE *Note: Costs exclude right of way, utility relocation, + insurance

MAIN BRIDGE SPAN

NORTHERN SOUTHERN APPROACH APPROACH STRUCTURE STRUCTURE (WINTHROP SIDE) (DOWNTOWN SIDE)

PAVED TRAIL + INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS

DESIGN + PERMITTING

TOTAL

POTENTIAL COST: LOW

$4,000,000.00

$2,080,000.00

$1,440,000.00

$91,500.00

$1,600,000.00

$9,211,500.00

POTENTIAL COST: HIGH

$5,000,000.00

$2,600,000.00

$1,800,000.00

$120,000.00

$2,000,000.00

$11,520,000.00

LENGTH

200 LF

650 LF

450 LF

n/a

n/a

n/a

TYPE

Girder Bridge

Span + Wall

Span + Wall

n/a

n/a

n/a

3

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Precedent Example

Knowledge Park Connectivity Master Plan

For more information, please contact David Lawrence at david.lawrence@cityofrockhill.com