Project RiverWay | Phenix City 2011

Phenix City, Alabama

Project Riverway 2011

Table of Contents 1

Introduction

39

3

Community Input

13th Street

49

Connectivity

Riverwalk

Phases Propsed Plan

Propsed Plan Gateway Improvements Riverwalk Entrance Phenix Plaza

Brickyard

First Steps

Connectivity & Land Use Enhancing the Riverwalk

Land Use Phases

77

5

Riverwalk Amenities

83

Meadowlane

Connectivity & Land Use

Connectivity

Wayfinding

Land Use Phases

Recreation Phases Propsed Plan

Propsed Plan Recreation & Greening Facility Improvement

7

Idle Hour Connectivity

17

Land Use Phases

29th & 33rd Connectivity & Land Use 3 Development Options

Propsed Plan Wayfinding & Connectivity

Phases Propsed Plan Wayfinding

Recreation

Design Options

57

Holland Creek

65

Downtown Connectivity Land Use Phases Propsed Plan Historic Character Adaptive Reuse Recreation

Dilllingham

Connectivity & Land Use Water Quality

Connectivity

Phases Propsed Plan

Phases Propsed Plan Greening

Education Recreation

91

25

Appendix

Land Use

Building Reuse Amphitheater

Introduction

In 2006, Project Riverway, in partnership with Riverway South, was launched. The idea was to build opportunities for community and economic development through heritage, cultural, and eco-tourism and to reconnect communities along the lower Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river basin with the rivers themselves. While it started as a three year endeavor, Project Riverway became more than we ever expected, and Phenix City, Alabama is our sixth year of bringing talented students from landscape architecture, planning, historic preservation and interior design to these remarkable, and often forgotten, places. Phenix City represents our most involved project to date with a rich history, an outstanding location on the banks of the Chattahoochee, and a real impetus for reinvigoration: the removal of two mill dams and the establishment of an urban whitewater course at the community’s front door. The time for Phenix City is now. Tourists will be coming. They will have dollars to spend, and they will need places to stay and eat and shop. However, it is short-sighted to create a community only for visitors. Amenities for residents are necessary as well, and Phenix City should look to fulfill the needs of those who are in and of the place.

This final report represents what the community told us they needed and wanted to see. Through a town hall meeting and surveys and informal conversations, through our observations of the place, we have generated recommendations that we hope you will embrace and carry forward. We hope that you’ll rely on this as a guide for redevelopment, but give things your own twist, your own style, as you move to implementation. It has been quite a voyage for us, bringing Project Riverway to Phenix City, and we hope that this report will kick-off a new adventure in Phenix City: one of revitalization and remembrance, one that celebrates the past while looking to the future, and one that rides the waves of the Chattahoochee towards a bright tomorrow.

Project Riverway Phenix City would not have been possible without the insight, expertise, and support of the Visioning Committee. The people who volunteered countless hours to guide and support the visioning process are committed to Phenix City and believe in its future. They have served as our hosts, our tour guides, our supporters, and now our friends, and Phenix City is fortunate to have such an outstanding team that is building for a better tomorrow. We are grateful to those who have served on the Visioning Committee: Era Bowden, Financial Center Leader, Branch Banking and Trust, Phenix City Mike Bowden, Principle, Realty 7 Peter Bowden, President – CEO, Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau; Executive Director, Riverway South JW Brannen, Special Projects Coordinator, City of Phenix City Department of Economic Development Jim Cannon, CVS Pharmacy, Phenix City Victor Cross, President, Phenix City – Russell County Chamber of Commerce Sonny Coulter, Mayor, City of Phenix City Shaun Culligan, Economic Development Specialist, Troy University Center for International Business and Economic Development and City of Phenix City Department of Economic Development Scott Holmes, Hecht Burdeshaw Architects Wallace Hunter, City Manager, City of Phenix City Georgia Laningham, President, Keep Phenix City Beautiful Jennifer Lowman, Administrative Specialist, City of Phenix City Department of Economic Development Susan McCollum, Instructor, Chattahoochee Valley Community College Angel Moore, City Engineer, Phenix City David Quinney, Manager, Alabama Power Company 1

Introduction

Denise Richardson, Alabama Power Company Kelli Roberts, Finance Director and Director of Tourism, Phenix City – Russell County Chamber of Commerce Carole Rutland, Executive Director, Riverway South, retired Tony Taylor, Taylor Funeral Home Dr. Judy Van Doorn, Director of Continuing Education, Troy University – Phenix City Jimmy Wetzel, Council Member-at-Large, Phenix City Dr. David White, Vice Chancellor, Troy University Max Wilkes, Council Member District 1, Phenix City In addition, many organizations and individuals supported Project Riverway through various contributions.

Whether financial, in-kind, or by volunteering their time, our work would not have been possible without the generosity of: Alabama Power Company Carol Argo City of Phenix City City of Phenix City Parks and Recreation City of Phenix City Department of Economic Development Dr. Tom Chesnutt Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau Mayor Sonny Coulter Shinene Currington CVS Pharmacy and Jim Cannon Teresa Hamilton Ronnie Jones Felicia Kelly Little Caesars and Mike Osmond Phenix City Public Schools Phenix City – Russell County Chamber of Commerce David Quinney Regions Bank Charlotte Sierra Arthur Sumbry Taylor Funeral Home and Tony Taylor Troy University Center for International Business and Economic Development Troy University Continuing Education Billy Turner Michelle Walker Jimmy Wetzel Max Wilkes Finally, it is important that we recognize the outstanding efforts of Shaun Culligan. He has been our community liaison, our meeting organizer, and our biggest cheerleader. Project Riverway Phenix City would not have happened without him. We are grateful for all of his support and enthusiasm and know that the future of Phenix City is bright with folks like Shaun committed to seeing it thrive.

Danny Bivins & Leigh Askew Elkins

2

Introduction

What are Phenix City’s assets?

What could improve those assets?

3

Community Input

Community Input At the heart of Project Riverway is community input. The thoughts and ideas of residents generated through public input processes guide the work of the Project Riverway team. Over the past six years, we have been able to develop a method by which we can work with the community to identify the issues and opportunities and then integrate that information into a community vision and development and implementation plans.

From community surveys to regular Visioning Committee meetings to the Town Hall where more than 120 people were able to voice their opinions, the Project Riverway team gathered information to inform design recommendations. By basing our recommendations on the wants and needs of the community, and by creating for those who are in and of the place, there will be greater support for implementation and greater success in revitalization efforts.

Three questions that were asked at the town hall meeting are represented here as “wordels.” A wordel logs all the responses given to a particular question, and the more a response is given, the larger those words appear in the final output. The questions: what are Phenix City’s assets; what could improve these assets; and what is Phenix City missing, were asked at the Town Hall meeting and captured electronically. For the Project Riverway team it provided a starting point for understanding community priorities.

What is Phenix City missing?

4

Community Input

First Steps

Welcome

The Project Riverway team spent nearly a week in Phenix City during one site visit, walking and driving the neighborhoods, talking to residents and creating a photographic inventory of the community. One of the first things that we noticed, and that many community members expressed to us, was the lack of gateway signage. What’s important about gateway signage? It lets visitors know they have arrived. It creates an identifiable look, a sense of place, and it communicates where to go.

Wayfinding should be thought of as a systematic method by which visitors move through your community and providing the appropriate directional signage to make that happen. The signage should be appropriately scaled, easily readable, and easily identifiable. It should be consistently used throughout the community. Wayfinding signage will also provide an opportunity for Phenix City to highlight its great assets, such as the Riverwalk and Amphitheater, Idle Hour Park, downtown and other areas that provide activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike.

= Sign Location

5

First Steps

PROPOSED

EXISTING

Creating economic opportunities by using exisiting assets will allow for quick transformations and positive economic impacts. Converting an exisiting home that is empty into a bed and breakfast will create a charming, character-rich place for tourists to stay in town.

EXISTING

Reprogramming a large home into a youth hostel will create an inexpensive and inviting place for young adventurists, in town to experience the thrill of the Chattahoochee’s rapids, to stay.

PROPOSED

6

First Steps

Idle Hour Park Idle Hour Park is an outstanding recreational asset and community gathering spot for Phenix City residents and visitors. At one time, the park boasted an amusement park and zoo, drawing visitors from near and far, and while it has changed significantly over the years, the park still has many assets and there are myriad opportunities for Idle Hour Park to be the active, engaging, and vibrant anchor of Phenix City.

Currently, neglected buildings and vacant, non-programmed spaces are two issues that need to be addressed. Buildings that show the historic character of the park offer a great opportunity for restoration and reuse and could host many different kinds of events. There are a number of empty spaces throughout the site that could easily be programmed for events like festivals and markets, drawing residents and visitors to the area.

The recommendations in the section are aimed at addressing these issues and making Idle Hour Park an exciting, enjoyable, attractive spot for residents and visitors to gather.

Greening

Add more shade trees in the e playgrounds, along the walking trail around Moon Lake, along new sidewalks,, and in the parking lots to make the parkk more inviting and comfortable. Program m new activities throughout the park where ere tree cover currently exists.

Recreation

Paddle boats, canoeing and kayaking king on Moon Lake could be provider for beginners and help link the new urban n whitewater course with Idle Hour. Other her options are to refurbish the swimming ng pool, have festivals, traveling circuses, traveling fairs, Frisbee golf, volleyball, and artss and crafts festivals.

Connectivity

Add wayfinding signs and stencils; ls; add sidewalks and crosswalks throughout out the rails. site, and include bike lanes/ bike trails.

Connectivity

Existing Connectivity Conditions Tree Cover Sidewalk Streets

Restrooms

enue 5th Av

s as yp B rth No ty i C ix en h P

Playgrounds

Airport Rd

Dr dium Sta

le vil er m m Su Rd

Idle Hour Park is the main pedestrian recreation area that Phenix City has to offer. The site has walking trails already in place and many other amenities that attract pedestrians. With many things to attract pedestrians to the park the park is not thoroughly connected for pedestrian use. Sidewalks and crosswalks need to be added along Airport Road to connect both sides of the park. Sidewalks should also be placed along the interior roads of the parks to allow pedestrians to travel throughout the park without having to walk in the roads.

Wayfinding signs should be placed throughout the park to help pedestrians travel with ease.

Vehicular Circulation Pedestrian Circulation 9

Idle Hour Park

Land Use

Existing Land Use Conditions

Tree Cover

s as yp B rth No ty i C ix en Ph

Amenities Vacant Lots

enue 5th Av

Vacant Buildings Rd Airport

Dr dium Sta

le vil er m m Su Rd

Idel Hour Park has an abundance of structures and areas of land that are prime places to be used by visitors to the park. Some of the older, dilapidated buildings need to be refurbished and reprogrammed for events like festivals and farmers markets. The unused open space throughout the park needs to be programmed to entice visitors to come to the park. Some examples for the open space include markets, circuses, and festivals.

Private Property

Phenix City Parks and Recreation

City of Phenix City

The areas around Idle Hour Park have different owners, and future development should be coordinated in a way that provides the greatest benefit to all involved.

10

Idle Hour Park

Phase 1

Install entry signage

Implement a stenciled wayfinding system throughout the park Plan community events Connect Sidewalks Increase shade trees in playground, parking lot, and along new sidewalks

Restore the Zoo building so it’s a useable space

Phase 2

Restore the parking lot by the Art Center Restore pool house to be a public restroom Plan more community events

Phase 3

Build a boat house on the edge of Moon Lake for paddle boats, kayaks, and canoeing in the lake Restore the pool Restore the pool house Restore building in between park and football field to be a public restroom Plan more events!

11

Idle Hour Park

Proposed Plan 13th Street

JR

80

Iy/

w

k nP

Baseball Fields

lle

A

Airport Road

Moon Lake

River Chase Drive

t Road

Airpor

Garrett-Harrison Stadium Trail Systems

et

th

re St

34

Street Trees Tree Canopy Sidewalks Moon Lake & Swimming Pool

12

Idle Hour Park

Wayfinding and Connectivity Idle Hour Park has a wonderful historic entry sign in the main drive but no signage to speak of at the two closest major traffic intersections. Repeat the design of the existing signage at the intersection of Airport Road and 5th Avenue and the intersection of Airport and Summerville roads. This will announce arrival at the park to visitors and give a unique identity and sense of place to the park.

EXISTING

PROPOSED

PROPOSED

EXISTING

If the signage crosses the road, it must have a minimum height of 11’ to allow for bus clearance according to the Transportation Research Board (http://pubsindex.trb.org/).

It is important to plan for buses for baseball tournaments and other events to access the park.

PROPOSED

13

Idle Hour Park

PROPOSED

Once guests have arrived at the park their stay will be more enjoyable if amenities are well marked and easily located. Wayfinding signs are a great way to help guests know what you have and help them get around.

Constructing them in a consistent style creates an identity and sense of place. Amenities like trash and recycle bins, water fountains, and public restrooms will contribute to the EXISTING comfort level of visitors to the park.

One of the great assets of Idle Hour, the trail around Moon Lake, can be used by bicyclists and pedestrians alike with simple striping and some stenciled icons on the ground that would divide the path.

PROPOSED

An impactful and easy way to start a wayfinding system in the park will be stenciling icons onto existing columns, posts, walls, or tree trunks, is an eye-catching way to help visitors. The images help guests know what type of amenities are available to them and arrows help guide them in the right direction. Make sure the images are bold and easily understandable. Paint them whenever roads diverge or visitors could wander from their intended destination. This can be done easily with a can of spray paint and a few sheets of sturdy card or tag board. Get the community involved by having local artists help make the stencils.

14

Idle Hour Park

Recreation PROPOSED

EXISTING

Idle Hour has a great playground.

A couple ways to make this experience better for users of the playground are to add shade trees around seating areas, add trash and recycle bins, add water fountains, and a public restroom nearby.

These additions make the space more inviting and make spending time there more comfortable.

The Phenix City Art Center, a popular and often used space, would benefit from several improvements.

First, repainting the facade will give the building a fresh look; replacing the front awning and the stained glass windows will brighten the space, making it even more inviting. A simple, clean landscaping plan along with an updated logo painted on the building will add visual interest on the exterior. The Art Center is a valuable community asset that should be well cared for.

15

Idle Hour Park

Idle Hour is an outstanding community resource with amenities like Moon Lake, the playground, ball fields, walking trails, and more. To build upon this successful park, the community should start programming events that take advantage of the existing park. Getting people out for different events will help take full advantage of this community asset. Some ideas for events would be: kite flying, food festival, bake-off, craft fair, traveling circus, historic Phenix City festival, Frisbee golf tournament, farmers’ market, volleyball tournament, paddle boats, teach basic kayak maneuvers, or canoeing in the lake.

16

Idle Hour Park

29th & 33rd Phenix CIty has the opportunity to create an outstanding kayak and raft launch near the end of 33rd Street. It is already used as an informal launch spot, but there are several issues that should be addressed before this is a readily accessible public place with a safe launch.

To improve vehicular access to the recommended launch site, 29th Street should be extended to intersect with 33rd Street, creating a road network that will allow rafters and kayakers to be dropped off with minimal intrusion to the residents in the area. There is currently a utility building located just over the hill at the bottom of 29th Street that should be relocated to allow this new traffic pattern.

For the safety of river-users, and the health of the immediate environment, several potential issues should be addressed. First, there is the opportunity to “day-light” two small streams on the property that will create a more park-like atmosphere and potentially improve water quality. Second, the launch area itself should be stabilized with appropriate plantings, and a constructed launch ramp to minimize erosion and provide safe access to the water should be installed.

Greening

Construction of a new park, land placed in a conservation easement, eradication of invasive species, plantings to aid in stream bank stabilization, landscape improvements throughout the site

Recreation

Kayak and raft launch, boat dock, and construction of a new park

Connectivity

Connect 29th and 33rd streets with a paved road, Riverwalk extension to the site, pedestrian trails constructed, and wayfinding signage

Connectivity & Land Use Ch

att

Tree Canopy Pollution Source

ahoo

33rd Street

Storm Drain

chee

100-Year Flood Utility Structure

Rive

Streets

r

Power Lines River Access (Unpaved)

Development Option 1

1st Street

29th S

Development Option 2

treet

Vehicular Circulation Pedestrian Circulation

The land at 29th and 33rd streets sits adjacent to the Chattahoochee allowing for ideal access to the river. The two streets should be connected with a paved road to allow users easy and safe access to the river with the creation of amenities like boat launches, parking and drop offs. The site is currently undeveloped which would allow for a progressive site plan to be created that could include infill housing, a park and a road network to to connect the whole site for vehicular and pedestrian usage.

There is a utility structure on the site that would have to be relocated to connect 29th Street with 33rd Street, but the relocation will benefit rafters and kayakers and create an easily accessible launch point for rafters and kaykers.

19

29th & 33rd

The proposed connectivity diagrams above highlight possible road configurations for moving vehicles and pedestrians through what could be the new boat lauch and residential infill development.

Development Options There are two different development options for this site, both of which can be seen on the plans on the following page. The first option is to create new through streets that form a grid, creating four new blocks of residential infill and a public park that is approximately 1.5 acres and can daylight one of the buried streams. The second option is to create a meandering east-west street connection and a through

street on 3rd Avenue that would create two blocks of residential infill, but all of the land to the east could be designated under a conservation easement, helping to protect the local ecology. In this option, both streams can be daylighted and it provides more of a buffer to the local residents from the traffic generated by kayak and rafting operations.

Infill Housing PROPOSED

Multi-Family Infill Housing Design

Conservation Easement PROPOSED

Single Family Infill Housing Design

20

29th & 33rd

Phase 1

Eradicate the abundant amount of Poison Ivy located throughout the site Relocate the utility station located on the site Create pedestrian paths to the river’s edge Designate spaces along the site for kayak and raft launching

The two buried streams should be daylighted

Phase 2

Road should be constructed that connects 29th and 33rd streets Parking should be designated for unloading of kayakers and rafters Pedestrian paths should be constructed to meet ADA standards Landscaping should be added to dictate pedestrian movement and aid in bank stabilization Land west of the newly created road should be placed in a conservation easement (in option 2)

Create the rest of the road network

Phase 3

Construct the park (in option 1) Pedestrian amenities such as lighting, benches, trash and recycle receptacles should be installed A dock should be created for public enjoyment and an alternative way to launch a kayak

21

29th & 33rd

Proposed Plan Option 1 Street Trees Tree Canopy Sidewalks 30th Street

30th Street

Chattaho

Chattahoochee River

ochee R

Residental Infill

iver

4th Avenue

Boat Launch Parking

ue

1st Aven

3rd Avenue

29th Street

Option 2 30th Street Chattaho iver

ochee R

e

venu 1st A

30th Street

4th Avenue 3rd Avenue

29th Street

22

29th & 33rd

Design Options One of the simplest launch and take-out options is a series of stairs constructed down into the river. Because the water level in the Chattahoochee is variable, the stairs should go down to the water at its lowest point but not be submerged when it is at its peak. Wide stairs provide entry into the water for multiple paddlers at a time but are often unstable, or require the paddler to enter the water before getting into their raft or kayak.

A pre-made dock option can be considered – these are floating docks that have hinged panels that angle down into the water allowing for a kayak to launch into the water with the assistance of a dock to push off of or the paddler can pull up into these spaces and step out directly onto a dock. These are helpful for inexperienced paddlers as they hold the kayak stable for entry and exit.

An addition to the end of a dock can be built using treated lumber or lumber alternatives (i.e. Trex) that provides a platform for the kayak to sit on while the paddler gets in. The launch sits slightly underwater so that the kayak rests on the lumber supports and stays stable – there is also a hand-rail at approximately shoulder-height of a seated paddler to aid in pushing off and entering the river.

23

29th & 33rd

Launch and take-outs can take on many forms from a simple earthen path to floating docks that can be manufactured and shipped to your location pre-made. There are three options included here for Phenix City to consider at the 29th and 33rd streets put-in, but this is by no means an exhaustive list.

PROPOSED

Phenix City may also wish to consider a traditional boat launch, which can make loading and unloading simple.

PROPOSED

Wayfinding Wayfinding signage should be put along 29th and 33rd streets to direct locals and tourists to the put-in locations. As the road configurations change in this area it important to keep the traffic on the main arteries to reduce traffic in residential neighborhoods.

EXISTING

PROPOSED

24

29th & 33rd

Downtown Historic downtown is situated between 14th and 17th Streets and 3rd Avenue and Broad Street. Once a thriving commercial district, there has been a steady decline in commercial activity. Downtowns have traditionally been the heart and soul of communities, and it is essential to reinvigorate the historic downtown shopping district to once again be the hub of community activity.

Currently, downtown Phenix City has more vacant buildings than occupied, and many of the structures are in need of repair. In a commercial district, such as downtown, pedestrian connectivity is essential as is clearly defined wayfinding. To increase and encourage pedestrian movement through downtown, it is important to create wayfinding signage, and improve the streetscape by repairing sidewalks, adding shade trees and painting crosswalks. Reprograming vacant lots will turn what can be considered an eyesore into a valuable community asset.

Greening

Construction of a pocket park, add street trees along streets to give site shade, plant landscape in turning islands

Recreation

Reprogram vacant lots into hubs off activity for special events like farmers’ market, wine market and outdoor movie nights. Also, develop local museums ums in currently vacant storefronts to increase crease downtown activity.

Connectivity

Connecting and fixing sidewalks throughroughout site, cross walks installed at intersecersections, adding wayfinding signage, finishing the pedestrian bridge and linking ng it to downtown, Broad St. streetscape.

Connectivity

Existing Connectivity Conditions

Tree Canopy No Crosswalk Streets

16th Street

No ADA Curb Cut

3rd Avenue

Broad Street

5th Avenue

Sidewalks

Bus Stop

15th Street

14th Street Pedestrian Bridge Chattahoochee River

Vehicular Circulation Pedestrian Circulation

The historic downtown core is the traditional heart and soul of the Phenix City community. In order to create a vibrant retail and commercial downtown, a greater sense of connectivity and an aesthetic upgrade to the streetscape is needed. This will help define the historic core and create a stronger sense of place.

27

Downtown

Land Use

Existing Land Use Conditions

Tree Canopy Surface Parking Vacant Buildings Vacant Lots

Broad Street

3rd Avenue

5th Avenue

16th Street

14th Street

Chattahoochee River

Unoccupied Space Occupied Space

Downtown has a lot of unused space, which includes vacant lots and buildings. An important part of this plan is to bring a purpose to these spaces, whether it be temporary or permanent. Adding infill buildings and reusing vacant ones can help to bring a vibrant, positive atmosphere back into downtown.

28

Downtown

Phase 1

Create a volunteer group to advocate for the redevelopment and maintenance of downtown.

Paint a mural to highlight the site of Albert Patterson’s assassination.

Install a new signage system for street signs and city-owned property.

Install Broad Street style benches on city and county-owned property.

Create a downtown facade revitalization grant program.

Begin to transform the empty grass lot on 5th Avenue into a community park.

Phase 2

Add food carts in vacant lots for an inexpensive option to draw people into the district.

Continue the transformation of vacant lot into a community park.

Continue downtown streetscape up Broad Street, throughout the historic downtown.

Install streetscape improvements to visually connect the pedestrian bridge (14th Street) to downtown.

Phase 3

Create opportunities and incentives to encourage infill development in empty downtown lots.

Retrofit existing buildings for the proposed Children’s and history museums.

Complete the transformation of the downtown park.

29

Downtown

Proposed Plan p

Broad Street

Future Site of Troy University

3rd Avenue

5th Avenue

16th Street

Infill Building Centennial Park

14th Street

Ped

estri

Courthouse

an B

ridge

Street Trees Sidewalks Pocket Park Infill Structure

30

Downtown

Historic Downtown Character PROPOSED

Phenix City has a rich and colorful history that is well known, and now is the time to share it with the community and visitors alike. The story of SIn City is can be used as a valuable asset that makes Phenix City like no other city in America. The Phenix City Story is a heroic story and can and should be used to draw visitors. Telling the story will act as a catalyst for downtown redevelopment and job creation.

PROPOSED

Downtown and its redevelopment is essential to the revitalization of Phenix City, and this must be supported by the Phenix City community. Intentionally seek opportunities to engage residents in the revitalization efforts.

31

Downtown

3

Bama Club and Corral

Historic Mill Site

5TH Ave

2

12 11 9

10

Whiskey Bust

Dillingham Bridge

8

Ancient Fisheries

7

14th St Bridge

9

Manhattan and other gambling operations on 14th St

2

14TH Street

TH

13 Street

6

6

7

1 3

4

N

5

Dillingham Street

Brickyard Rd

5

8

22ND Street 13 Metropolitan Lottery

4

SAMPLE HISTORIC PHENIX CITY WALKING TOUR

Broad Street

1

Welcome Center

10 11 12 13

Phenix City Museum

Elite Cafe & Albert Love Patterson Site

Palace Theater

Historic Home

32

Downtown

Adaptive Reuse In order for downtowns to be vibrant, new and creative uses have to occupy currently vacant buildings and lots.

Phenix City could create interactive museums that would focus on children and the Phenix City Story as a draw; along with working with developers and entrepreneurs to recruit retail, commercial and loft living opportunities.

PROPOSED EXISTING

PROPOSED EXISTING

PROPOSED

Transform the current post office into a history museum. The rehabilitation of the Colonial Revival structure would be mainly interior since the exterior of the building is in good condition. A few coats of paint and landscaping would prepare it for a successful history mseum. A sign has been placed in the front with amenities such as a trash can, recycle bin, bench, and streetlighting. Trees will be planted to provide cooling and shade.

33`

Downtown

HISTORIC

The proposed music venue, lounge and museum will be a key draw for downtown. This unique space will provide a bit of history and fun. The establishment will be multifunctional with a glimpse of Phenix City’s past. With replica gambling machines, Freddie Hart records in the juke box, and historic photos of Sin City all around, locals and visitors will enjoy the entertaining atmosphere.

PROPOSED PROPOSED

Infill EXISTING

PROPOSED

The infill design proposed for the South East corner lot of 5th Avenue and 14th Street is based on historical photos of an earlier existing building once located downtown.

These infill designs are to provide a vision of an economically thriving downtown while evoking its history. The name Boones Café was derived from a previous establishment on 13th street.

34

Downtown

Recreation EXISTING

The empty lot on 5th Avenue, once the location of the Palace Theatre, is transformed into a quaint park area for the downtown. Already elevated above original curb steps, the park is accessed by stairs and a ramp on the south side. There is a brick path leading to a centered fountain and then to a quiet sitting area in the rear of the park. Benches and appropriate street lights and trash cans are added and a water fountain.

The sidewalk is now properly connected and makes it safer for strolling pedestrians. Bike racks can easily be added for cyclists to safely lock up their bikes when visiting downtown.

35

Proposed

Downtown

Phase 1

PHASE I consists of leveling the ground and adding grass and landscaping. An alternate plan would create a retaining wall to support the raised lot and adding an ADA ramp on the south side for access.

PHASE II of park construction will incorporate the landscaping and retaining wall of phase I and add a brick path through the park to a rear patio. An optional fountain can be placed in the center of a circular path.

Benches, light fixtures, trash cans and recycle bins, and a water fountain can be added for convenience.

Phase 2

PHASE III (Proposed) calls for a main entrance to the park. The name “Palace Park” comes from the site’s original Palace Theater that was demolished. Other options given in Phase III create community activities like bocce ball courts and horseshoes. There is room around the center circle for tables to be set up and the fountain can be turned off to create more space

Phase 3

36

Downtown

Recreation Farmers markets can be held at the park as a way to support local farmers and merchants, it also brings people into the space at least once a week. Both movie nights and a farmers market can be organized in the early phases of park construction. It shouldn’t have to be a completed space before activities are planned.

Holding community events in the park, such as outdoor movie nights, give a sense of purpose to the space, and also draw residents into the downtown area. Since the park is proposed for the old Palace Theater site, movie nights would speak to the historic nature of the location. Other recreational activities, such as bocce, can be programmed into the space so that there are opportunities for both active and passive recreation.

37

Downtown

Creating a destination at the intersection of the pedestrian bridge and the river walk will be an instant draw. Using food carts to create an outdoor dining experience is a quick fix and creates a one of a kind destination.

EXISTING

PROPOSED

Food carts can take on many forms, which can add to the interest and novelty of buying lunch from a food vendor on the street.

Food vendors would also set Phenix City apart from Columbus because the regulations on street vending in Georgia is costly and prohibitive.

The first step in getting food vendors in the downtown area is to check local ordinances for rules and regulations.

38

Downtown

13th Street The 13th Street Bridge provides a major gateway into Phenix City, but it currently lacks any cohesive announcement of arrival or sense of place for the driver or the pedestrian. This location presents an outstanding opportunity to make a statement about Phenix City with targeted economic development and environmentally sensitive design.

The area has great opportunities to revitalize dilapidated buildings and develop underutilized plots with new commercial infill, however, the 13th Street gateway and corridor have a number of issues that make it undesirable, particularly from the pedestrian’s point of view: fast moving vehicular traffic and expanses of asphalt that make the area hot and unpleasant. Much of the successful economic redevelopment of this corridor will be dependent upon pedestrian traffic moving comfortably around the area.

The recommendations in this section are aimed at addressing these issues and making the 13th Street gateway an inviting, attractive and enjoyable space for people to walk, bike, shop, dine and make people say: “Have you seen what they’ve done in Phenix City? You have to go visit.”

Greening

Add bioswales and street trees in parking lots, add street trees along roadways, install tree lined planted median, plant wildflowers in overflow parking lot at “triangle”

Recreation

Water play scape along river walk, bike lanes and bike racks/rentals, walking tour stops, repair river walk

Connectivity

Add raised cross walks, add wayfinding signage, fix and connect sidewalk, adding bike lanes to connect the riverwalk with town, make the entire site pedestrian accessible

Connectivity

Existing Connectivity Conditions

Tree Cover No Crosswalks Streets Sidewalks No Handicap Access

Broad Street

3rd Avenue

Riverwalk Access

13th Street

Chattahoochee River

Option 1 The 13th Street gateway is one of the major vehicular entrances into Phenix City. Because of this, vehicular access has become the priority at the expense of walking or biking. Currently the main issues in this area for pedestrians include disjointed sidewalks, a lack of crosswalks, and very few shade trees. With the rehabilitation of the 14th Street bridge as a pedestrian connection and the impending construction of the Troy University campus, it is important for pedestrians and cyclists to be able to move safely and comfortably through the area.

Option 2

The proposed circulation patterns to the right prioritize the pedestrian by creating safe crossings at each intersection and raised crosswalks in the parking lot. Raising crosswalks helps to slow down vehicular traffic by serving as speedbreaks, and making pedestrians more visible to cars as they cross.

41

13th Street

Vehicular Circulation Pedestrian Circulation

Land Use Tree Cover

Vacant Buildings Vacant Lots Parking lots

Broad Street

3rd Avenue

Riverwalk Access

13th Street

Chattahoochee River

The 13th Street area has an abundance of vacant buildings and undeveloped lots, and because the13th Street bridge is one of the main routes between Phenix City and Columbus, GA, those vacant spaces and outdated structures are the first thing visitors and residents see when they enter town. There is a tremendous opportunity for new development and revitalization efforts in the area to create structures in an architectural style that is reflective of the history of Phenix City.

Of great significance, the redevelopment of Phenix Plaza and creation of Troy University’s riverfront campus will be two major anchors that can define what this important gateway will look like.

EXISTING

EXISTING

42

13th Street

Improve the pedestrian experience by connecting the network of sidewalks and adding raised crosswalks that force traffic to slow down.

Phase 1

In parking lots, add bioswales to reduce polluted stormwater runoff and trees to provide shade and lower temperatures Provide overflow parking in the undeveloped “triangle” at 13th and 3rd, enhancing the lot with gravel and minimal plantings Add trash and recycle bins throughout the area and screen dumpsters that are in view, as currently required by city ordinance Add street decorations or site furnishings like planters or flags on light poles

Create a mill-themed water playscape on the Riverwalk

Phase 2

Create a boulevard feel by adding a planted median and bike lanes Emphasize entry into Phenix City by installing a new welcome sign in the median Install bike racks Add wayfinding and welcome signage at the Riverwalk entrance

Create street frontage by bringing Phenix Plaza up to 13th Street and 3rd Avenue Develop the “triangle” by adding businesses Add public restrooms near both Riverwalk entrances 43

13th Street

Phase 3

Proposed Plans Option 1

Phenix Plaza Redevelopment There are two proposed redevelopment options for Phenix Plaza. The first option is to redo the exterior façade in a style that is reminiscent of a textile mill. The parking lot for the Plaza would be reconfigured to allow for additional landscaping and pedestrian paths.

3rd Avenue

Pedestrian Bridge

Broad Street

13th Street

14th Street Pedestrian Bridg

Street Trees Tree Canopy Sidewalks Infill Development Chattahoochee River

Broad Street

e

Option 2

Phenix Plaza Redevelopment

3rd Avenue

The second option also calls for a façade that is stylistically indicative of a textile mill.

However, the redevelopment is much more significant than in the first option. Option 2 calls for new mixed used development to be located close to the main roads with parking at the rear of the property. A courtyard connection is created that directly aligns with the new county courthouse addition, visually connecting downtown with Phenix Plaza’s redevelopment.

14th Street

13th Street

44

13th Street

Phenix Plaza

Option 1

PROPOSED

The proposed redesign for the Phenix Plaza shopping center reflects a mill style architecture, with rhythm and rectangular repetition, resembling the architecture across the river in Columbus, and reflective of the history of the region. This facade design will consist of increasing the height of the shopping center to resemble the verticality of the mill buildings that were once in this location. The use of mill architecture will create a visual flow connecting Columbus to Phenix City, and will make the 13th Street entrance inviting to those entering over the bridge.Reflecting the architectural style still in existence across the Chattahoochee creates a strong visual impact, but unique signage and design details will differentiate one city from the other.

Option 2

PROPOSED

45

13th Street

EXISTING

Option Two (left) shows the proposed redeveloped Phenix Plaza site with a multi-story, mixedused development located close the street. The architecture reflects the traditional textile mill style reminiscent of the history of the place.

The Triangle Phenix City Mill Lofts - PROPOSED

EXISTING

Infill development in the triangle will create a prominant feature as visitors and residents travel into and out of Phenix City.The repetition of mill-style architecture is employed here in an homage to the city’s historical character and in an effort to define Phenix City’s sense of place and character.

Creating an off-street overflow parkinglot in the triangle is proposed in Phase 1 so that there is ample parking for visitors to the Riverwalk and 13th Street area. This also defines the space and gives it purpose, if only temporarily.

PROPOSED - Overflow Parking

EXISTING

46

13th Street

Gateway Improvements PROPOSED

EXISTING

Adding a tree lined median with a prominent welcome sign to 13th Street after crossing the bridge is a simple way to slow traffic and create a sense of arrival into Phenix City.

Adding elements that slow traffic coming into the 13th Street intersection will create a sense of arrival as well as make it safer and more appealing for pedestrians.

PROPOSED

Adding raised sidewalks across all three sides of this intersection makes pedestrians more visible to vehicles, helps slow traffic down, and helps to distinguish pedestrian and vehicular zones.

EXISTING

With the new configuration of traffic lanes you will have the ability to add a bike lane. Adding a bike lane encourages alternative transportation, which lowers air and noise pollution and can create positive, vibrant street life in the downtown area.

47

13th Street

EXISTING

PROPOSED

Unprogrammed open space along 13th Street near the Broad Street intersection creates an opportunity for infill with features such as shade trees, benches, and bicycle rental or storage racks. Adding these elements will provide pedestrians with a more engaging landscape.

An active landscape will capture the attention of drivers and pedestrians, opening opportunities for increased economic development.

Offering bicycle rental and storage at major entrances to the city offers citizens and tourists alternative means of transportation. Experiencing Phenix City by bicycle, along the Riverwalk, Moon Lake, or on a history tour, engages residents and visitors with the city.

Riverwalk Entrance EXISTING

PROPOSED

The Riverwalk is a great asset.

Adding signage, trash and recycle bins, restrooms, water fountains, and shade trees, particularly at entrances, will greatly improve the experience. Creating amenities such as public restrooms and concession stands will make the entrance more visible and comfortable for Riverwalk users.

48

13th Street

Riverwalk The Riverwalk is an established recreational feature of Phenix City but it currently lacks direct connectivity to the main thoroughfares of downtown and is in need of directional signage to make the area more visitor-friendly.

Phenix City’s Riverwalk is a huge asset that offers shaded riverfront views for visitors to enjoy.

Making more amenities available along the Riverwalk, like fish cleaning stations, restrooms, historical information stops, playscapes and landscaped leisure areas, will increase pedestrian traffic and make this Riverwalk unlike any other. The recommendations for this section are targeted at making the Riverwalk a destination passersby cannot miss and one that residents will take immense pride in and use daily.

Greening

Adding more shade trees along riverwalk, install intentionally landscaped gathering places

Recreation

Installing Fish cleaning stations, walking trail, connection to river, walking tour stops, adding playscapes

Connectivity

Installing directional signage, connect sidewalks and pathways, access to downtown and gateways

Connectivity & Land Use The Riverwalk is one of the main recreational features of Phenix City and is used by both residents and visitors. In order to increase use, the sidewalks and pathways need to become more connected and offer better directional signage to visitors. Currently, it is extremely difficult to know what lies ahead along the Riverwalk; whether it continues under the 13th Street bridge or not; distances to entrance and exit points; and what lies at the end of the path. By increasing the connectivity of the Riverwalk, visitors and residents alike will find it easier to use and more pedestrian friendly.

For examply, additional formal access points will increase user interaction with other points in the community.

Vehicular Circulation Pedestrian Circulation

51

Riverwalk

Enhancing the Riverwalk Rive Existing Phenix City, AL Rive Existing Columbus, GA Rive Tree C

Phenix City should develop a team of volunteers through Keep Phenix City Beautiful to regularly assist in the removal of trash and debris from the riverwalk. Entrances to the site should be more prominant, and additional conveniences like restrooms, lighting, wayfinding signage, trash and recycle bins, and water fountains should be added.

PROPOSED

EXISTING

PROPOSED

EXISTING

Existing Phenix City, AL River Walk Existing Columbus, GA River Walk Tree Canopy

The Phenix City Riverwalk is still in its infancy, and therefore is full of potential. The Phenix City side of the Chattahoochee River is lush and green as opposed to the Columbus side, so when expanding the riverwalk, every effort should be made to keep existing tree canopy , which will make it shady and pleasant.

52

Riverwalk

Install directional/wayfinding signage

Phase 1

Increase lighting and other amenities like water fountains and recyle bins Establish a regular maintenance management program Open amphitheater restrooms for public access Establish a Friends of the Riverwalk through Keep Phenix City Beautiful

Phase 2

Establish historical walking tour with information stops Install fish cleaning stations

Design and install intentionally landscaped gathering places Increase public parking at 13th Street entrance

53

Riverwalk

Proposed Plan Tree Canopy Sidewalks Chattahoochee River

Chattahoochee River

Broad Street

13th Street

54

Riverwalk

Riverwalk Amenities

Phenix City is actively working to expand Next Phase of Riverwalk the Riverwalk and has additional opporExisting Riverwalk tunities to continue its development in the future. A natural terminus for the RivFuture Phase of Riverwalk erwalk is Idle Hour Park to the north of downtown, with a connection across the river to the Columbus Riverwalk as well. In addition to the lengthening of the path, the Riverwalk can also provide other amenities like playscapres that will help draw visitors to the banks of the Chattahoochee., and broaden the user base to include families with young children.

The playscape below reflects the history and heritage of boats on the Chattahoochee. Playscapes can and should reflect the river and its important role in the history of the Phenix City area. Having creative and unique playscapes will draw residents and visitors to the Riverwalk, and then into downtown Phenix City.

55

Riverwalk

EXISTING

The riverwalk is already equipped with infrastructure such as water spigots and electrical outlets, which can be utilized when placing amenities along the path. Fish cleaning stations are convenience areas with large wash sinks, running water, and often freezers for users to place refuse for collection; since the infrastructure is in place, it is recommended for the city of Phenix City to create fish cleaning stations along the riverwalk to support the

Fish cleaning stations can take the form of an open-air pavilion with a wash sink. In this type of station the user is provided with shade and refuse cannot be left behind. Shelters can be built using vernacular architecture so that they create a theme throughout the riverwalk and reflect the theme of the city.

PROPOSED

fishermen of the Chattahoochee River. Along with placing amenities such as fish cleaning stations, creating deliberate landscaping can make open spaces feel inviting and purposeful. Landscaping can also help dictate pedestrian movement to protect the river’s edge from erosion.

In certain situations, a wash sink can be placed in the open air with no structure surrounding it. This is the most minimal type of station and does not look as nice as the others recommended here. The sinks are also metal, which can get very hot if placed in direct sunlight, so if choosing this type, place stations under large trees which will provide shade and shelter for users.

A fully enclosed fish cleaning stations offers shade and protection from the elements and insects.

These often include a sink and a freezer for users to place refuse in, which is collected by city maintenance or a private company.

56

Riverwalk

Holland Creek The Holland Creek site provides several interesting opportunities for Phenix City: a connection with the Chattahoochee River; potential primitive camping; using the site as an education area; and allowing the public to access the river through this site.

The site currently has a number of issues associated with it that need to be dealt with before it can be actively used by the public. The creek receives untreated stormwater runoff from the surrounding area, particularly parking lots and roadways, that pollutes the creek and makes it unusable by the public. The creek at this location is incised and is eroding the land at a very fast pace, there are also many invasive species that can be found growing throughout the site.

The recommendations in this section are all aimed at addressing these issues and making the Holland Creek area an attractive and enjoyable space for pedestrians.

Greening

Eradication of invasive species, planting anting of native plants to screen man wholes and to create division of campsites,,

Recreation

Primitive camping, river access, education center and signage, riverwalk

Connectivity

Construct pedestrian trails throughout ghout site, connection with the river walk, k, access to the river

Connectivity & Land Use

Holland Creek connects with the Chattahoochee near the amphitheater and has the riverwalk running over it. It will be an ideal kayak take-out point, but there are no places to easily and safely access the the creek and, in turn, the Riverwalk. The creek runs below Broad Street which would give a good pedestrian connection to the propsed primative camp site adjacent to the creek. A pedestrian trail could be constructed throughout the site to give users an easy connection to the area.

The proposed connectivity highlights the circulation between campsites.

59

Holland Creek

Vehicular Circulation Pedestrian Circulation

Water Quality Efforts to protect Holland Creek are underway and should be a community priority as Phenix City prepares for thousands of kayakers who will need safe, clean areas to launch and take-out their boats. One step the community can take is to minimize stormwater runoff from the Amphitheater/Russell County parking lot. One way to acccomplish this is with a bioretention step pool system.

The bioretention cells in the step pool system are designed to help stabilize the stream bank beside Holland Creek, but more importantly, to retain and filter run-off from the parking lot. Studies have found that properly designed and constructed bioretention cells are able to achieve excellent removal of heavy metals, as well as oil and grease, and can contribute to pollution load reduction in a watershed.

Bioretention cells are living, microecological systems and should be used as an educational tool. Signage highlighting how they involve, among other things, the hydrologic cycle, point-source pollution treatment, resource conservation, habitat creation, and nutrient cycles can be placed in the landscape.

Beyond its use for pollution control, the step-pool system provides attractive landscaping and a natural habitat for birds and butterflies.

Talk about how volunteers can help remove debris and keep Holland Creek clean and beautiful.

Inlet directs water into the retention basins

Use plants specified in the rain garden approved list found on page _______

Large gravel size for maximum infiltration of runoff and rainwater Rock vein helps to maintain bank stability and reduce erosion

60

Holland Creek

Phase 1

Remediate the pollution source from the amphitheater parking lot Remove invasive species throughout the site Stabilize the stream bank through terracing

Phase 2

Create mulched pedestrian paths and gravel parking lots on both sides of Holland Creek Designate areas for primitive camping Plant native plants to screen above-ground manholes and to create more intentional division of camp sites

Phase 3

Make paths ADA accessible

Construct permanent public restroom facilities for campers Develop educational signage and place along walking trails Create an educational center in the parking lot of the amphitheater

61

Holland Creek

k Cree and Holl

Broad Street

Proposed Plan

Street Trees Tree Canopy Sidewalks Educational Center Commercial Infill Chattahoochee River

62

Holland Creek

PROPOSED

Education EXISTING

The Phenix City Nature Center can provide a space for tourists to learn about the environmentally friendly initiatives in Phenix City, as well as provide summer camps for children and organize river clean-ups. If the nature center is built large enough it can house meeting rooms and event space in a prominent location in the city and the rear of the building will overlook the native plants walk and the step-pool system, which will be an inviting backdrop.

The native plant walk should coordinate with the nature center as well as the phone-in tours throughout the city. Additional information can be provided at each stop about the habitat created or Native American uses of the plants.

PROPOSED

63

Holland Creek

EXISTING

Recreation EXISTING

PROPOSED

Once amenities such as benches, fire rings, and screening vegetation are added to the Holland Creek site, a comfortable camping environment is created.

EXISTING

Where the mouth of Holland Creek meets the Chattahoochee River is a flat, sandy, easily accessible location that makes a great place for a kayak and rafting take-out. Depending on the flow conditions of the river the sandbar exposure will change, which makes it dificult to build any sort of permanent structure. The current conditions are perfect acceptible as a take-out without any obtrusive structures.

PROPOSED

The take-out point for rafters and kayakers should be unobtrusive and easy to navigate, making it a comfortable, safe environment to maneuver.

Wayfinding signage placed near the take-out can help to direct users to the amphitheatre, nature center, or campground.

64

Holland Creek

Dillingham The Dillingham Street Bridge is one of the main entry points for Phenix City and has huge potential to pull many visitors into downtown, but it is currently missing out on this opportunity because this entry point fails to give drivers and pedestrians a sense of arrival. This area has the chance to become a welcoming spot to vehicular and pedestrian traffic while increasing traffic flow and patronage downtown. By focusing on revitalizing and developing the main four corners of this intersection this area can be transformed from a partially abandoned roadway to an inviting gateway to Phenix City. Increasing the connectivity via sidewalks and crosswalks for pedestrians and offering more shade along these paths will make this gateway much more user friendly. The recommendations in this section encourage people to stop, enjoy themselves and stay a while in Phenix City.

Greening

Continuation of Broad Street streetscape, adding more shade trees and greening along sidewalks and in surface lots, landscape concrete platform above amphitheater

Recreation

Adding shade sails to amphitheater, adding river outfitter pickup, making historic structure a welcome museum, extending riverwalk

Connectivity

Adding crosswalks to connect sidewalks, installing directional signage for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, connecting parking lots on south corner for public use, installing outfitter/ trolley pickups, extending riverwalk, adding public transit stops

Connectivity Tree Canopy Sidewalk

Broad Street

Streets Riverwalk Riverwalk Entrance No Crosswalk Bus Stop Dillingham Street

Ch

Brickyard Road

iver attahoochee R

67

Vehicular Circulation Pedestrian Circulation

Dillingham

Dillingham Street bridge is one of the main entry points for vehicles and pedestrians into Phenix City.

Currently, vehicles take precedent over pedestrians and the sidewalks lack connectivity, shade and overall safety. Increasing shade trees, public transit stops, directional signage and crosswalks will allow for more pedestrian flow throughout the area and offer pedestrians and vehicles safer travel through this main corridor.

Broad Street

Land Use

Dillingham Street

iver attahoochee R

Brickyard Road

Ch

Tree Canopy Surface Parking Vacant Lot Vacant Building Riverwalk Entrance

The Dillingham Street area has quite a few vacant buildings and undeveloped lots which do not offer a welcome greeting to visitors when they first cross the city lines. This area has potential to reestablish itself as a gateway to Phenix City, a desired destination for visitors. By focusing on increasing use of existing buildings and vacant lots the area can begin to establish anchors for itself that attract visitors to use the amenities available to them (i.e. amphitheater, Riverwalk, outfitters, etc.).

68

Dillingham

Phase 1

Continue Broad Street streetscape and add crosswalks to connect sidewalks Screen dumpsters in parking lots Incorporate more shade trees and greening along pedestrian pathways and in surface lots Install gateway and directional signage for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic Landscape concrete platform above amphitheater on Dillingham as a look out spot to river Open amphitheater restrooms for limited public access

Connect parking lots on south corner for public use

Phase 2

Install sails and stage shell at amphitheater Establish potential outfitter route for pedestrian pick-up/trolley stops to downtown and riverfront Convert historic structure to visitor’s center/temporary welcome museum

Phase 3

Add public restroom extension onto existing amphitheater restrooms

Build up street corners, in accordance with local design standards, with more structural development at Dillingham and Broad Extend the Riverwalk past Dillingham Street Re-design Citgo to rid corner of blight, incorporate a throw-back design for signage

69

Dillingham

Proposed Plan

Brickyard Road

Chattahooch

ee River

Broad Street

Riverwalk Entance

Dillingham Street

Street Trees Tree Canopy Sidewalks Pocket Park Commercial Infill Shade Sails Chattahoochee River

Dillingham

70

EXISTING

PROPOSED

Greening Bioswales and tree islands should be added to existing parking lots.

According to the existing zoning ordinance (Article V, section1.A.7 Parking Lot Requirements), tree islands should be placed at least every sixteen spots. Place tree islands more often if necessary in order to have them evenly spaced throughout the lot. Bioswales should be in low spots of the parking lot in order to catch the storm water runoff.

Bioswales are beneficial because they help treat water quality using soil, vegetation and microbes, reduce the volume of stormwater runoff (which is carrying pollutants from roads and parking lots into our streams), increase infiltration and recharge ground water (which is where we get a lot of our drinking water from and helps maintain a healthy ecosystem), improves aesthetics, and increase biodiversity.

PROPOSED

EXISTING

71

Dillingham

The overlook next to the Dillingham bridge is a great place to make a pocket park. When rafters, floaters, and kayakers start coming down the river this will be a great place to watch. Developing a pocket park here will also help support the Dillingham bridge as a gateway into Phenix City. Undeveloped land near a gateway negates a sense of arrival.

PROPOSED

All this area needs is some shade trees, shrubs to help divide the space up, seating options, and a maintained view out over the river.

Make sure to add trash and recycle bins. This will help everyone keep the pocket park neat and tidy and inviting.

Use plants specified in the rain garden approved list found on page _______

Controled overflow structure Larger size gravel for runoff retention

EXISTING

Do not install curb stops.

If deemed necessary make sure there are cuts to allow run off to flow through.

Sandy soil medium for high infiltration of runoff.

Perforated drain pipe connecting to storm drain

Green walls have many benefits: improved aesthetics, improved air quality, reduced stress, increase property values, or get recognition for your environmental contributions through award systems like LEED or Sustainable Sites. Currently the amphitheater parking lot is dominated by asphalt and concrete. It is hot and not visually pleasing. A green wall on the retaining wall in the back of the parking lot will help cool the parking lot and make it more visually pleasing.

PROPOSED

72

Dillingham

Building Reuse PROPOSED

73

Dillingham

Dillingham is a key gateway into Phenix City. Three major assets are connected to the Dillingham gateway: the whitewater takeout; the starting point for the riverwalk; and the amphitheater.

These buildings adjacent to Dillingham are ideally located to be retrofitted around the whitewater theme.

PROPOSED

PROPOSED

74

Dillingham

Building Reuse PROPOSED

EXISTING

Dillingham has the potential to be the most inviting gateway into Phenix City. It is important to leverage existing resources to make this transformation happen. 1) The Citizen Bank building is a prominent historic building and properly frames the corner. It is recommended that the Citizens Bank building be converted into a welcome center. 2) Also, the side of the building should be used as a welcome sign that is based on the Phenix City movie poster. 3) Continue the streetscape improvements down Broad Street and Dillingham. This will further create a sense of arrival and visually connect the community.

PROPOSED

75

Dillingham

Amphitheater PROPOSED

The amphitheater is also a critical existing resource that needs to be fully utilized. It is essential to find ways to attract visitors to Phenix City. By installing a shade structure and shell over the stage, the amphitheater can be used more often.

PROPOSED

EXISTING

76

Dillingham

Brickyard Road Phenix City lacks a location for people to camp, whether it is primitive camping or RV camping. The vacant lot on Brickyard Road located very close to downtown Phenix City would provide a great location for a campground. The lot already has a building located on the grounds which could serve a variety of purposes, and it is adjacent to the railroad tracks which could serve as a pedestrian connection to downtown.

Greening

Add shade trees and plantings throughout site to give users plenty of shade

Recreation

Primitavie camping, band stage, playground, whitewater activity pickup area for outfitters to use

Connectivity

Rail-trail to link campground with rest of city, add crosswalk, pick up area

Connectivity & Land Use Cha

tta

ho

oc

he

eR iv

d ard R Bricky

Tree Canopy Vacant Building Vacant Lot

Railroad Access Road Streets

Broad St

Railroad

The vacant lot on Brickyard Road is located next to the river and the proposed bike and pedestrian trail, providing myriad ways to connect it with downtown Phenix City. The site only has one structure and very few trees on it, which allows for a campground to be easily started at this location.

The vacant building has the possibility of being refurbished and used as a camp store, check-in/information center, and restroom/shower facility for campers.

79

Vehicular Circulation Pedestrian Circulation

Brickkyard Road

er

Recreation PROPOSED

Initially, spots for RVs and primative camping areas could be designated using railroad cross-ties. Open spaces could provide areas for outdoor activities like a volleyball net or horseshoe pit. Water and power hook-ups and a pump-out station would provide additional amenties for visitors.

PROPOSED

Wayfinding PROPOSED

PROPOSED

The Brickyard Campground provides an ideal pick-up and drop-off spot for kayakers and those who would like to visit downtown, the amphitheater and other Phenix City attractions.

80

Brickkyard Road

Phase 1 Install signage at the entrance of the campground Restore the existing building on the site to create a check in building for campers Create roads that are accessible for RVs Lay out the RV sites and make them easily identifiable to campers Create a pick-up/drop-off space for kayaking and whitewater rafting shuttle services Add additional shade trees throughout site for comfort and to obscure the view from the road for privacy Designate areas around site for tent camping Install water and power hook-ups

Phase 2 Build amenities like showers and a pavilion Install a shelter at the shuttle pick-up/drop-off location for shade and to make it readily identifiable Add a playground for children Construct or paint a crosswalk for connection to downtown via a potential rail-trail system Add a band stage for entertainment Add a pump out station

81

Brickyard Road

Broad St Ext

Proposed Plan ad

Ro d r a y k c ri

B

Bric

Ch

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Riv

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tran

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kyar Tree Canopy Amenities Playground Check In and General Store RV Plots Chattahoochee River

82

Brickkyard Road

Meadowlane Park Meadowlane Park is a recreational park located on the south side of Phenix City that has many assets already in place. The park is located in between an elementary and junior high school. The park has recreation fields, public restrooms, pavilions, a recreation center, a public swimming pool, and many other things for visitors to enjoy.

Greening

Plant shade trees throughout site especially along new walking trail extension and playground, add bioswales and shade trees in parking lot, add vegetative screens around trash cans

Recreation

Add water play scape, extend walking trails, restore old ball fields, program open spaces for recreational activities, add band stages, and add dog park

Connectivity

Add new entrance ways where users will not have to travel through the 2 schools to enter the site

Connectivity Meadowlane Dr

7th Ave S Tree Canopy Streets Access Road Paved Path Unpaved Path

To enter Meadowlane Park, users have to travel through one of the two schools located on the site. For increased safety, new entrances should be established where users do not have to rely on the shared driveways.

There are already maintained walking trails on the site, and the trails could be expanded throughout the whole park. Interior vehicular roads could be removed or blocked on particular occasions to allow for the park to be used primarily by pedestrians.

85

Vehicular Circulation Pedestrian Circulation

Meadowlane Park

Land Use Meadowlane Dr

Broad B road Street Street

Elementary School

Football Field

Baseball Field

Swimming Pool

7th Ave S

Recreation Center

Volleyball

Tree Canopy Surface Parking Amenities Vacant Lot Restroom

Junior High School

Tennis Courts Playground

Meadowlane Park is another great facility that Phenix City has to offer.

Walking trails, playgrounds, and ball fields give park users many recreational opportunities. There are

many open spaces throughout the park some of the spaces should be programmed for recreational activities and some left open to for users to decide for themselves how they would like to use the space.

There is an old ball field that could easily be fixed up and tournaments and games could be hosted on the fields at the park.

86

Meadowlane Park

Phase 1 Organize a volunteer group to take care of general maintenance and site clean up Plant shade trees throughout site to make the space cooler during the summer Camouflage the trash can behind the baseball fields by using vegetated screens and add recycling bins to the site

Create a new entrance so users do not feel like they are driving through a school to use a public space

Phase 2

Add signage at the entrances to the park Restore the old baseball field so that there are three active fields available Construct a band stage for entertainment Extend the walking trail system Remove the vehicular turn-around space behind the ball fields

Add more lighting so the space feels comfortable at dusk Add bioswales and shade trees to the parking lot, in keeping with city ordinances Add a water playscape Create a standard façade on buildings so that the site feels cohesive Add a dog park 87

Meadowlane Park

Phase 3

Proposed Plan

p 8th Avenue S

Meadowlane Road

Street Trees Tree Canopy

Meadowlane Elementary School

Walking Trails

7th Avenue S

Amenities

South Girard School

88

Meadowlane Park

Recreation and Greening PROPOSED

EXISTING

Providing additional amenities in Meadowlane Park will encourage use of the space in positive ways.

Trees, benches, and even a water playscape will provide those in surrounding neighborhoods and from the larger community another vibrant recreational area.

PROPOSED

EXISTING

89

Meadowlane Park

EXISTING

PROPOSED

Programatic improvements in Meadowlane Park will allow visitors additional recreational opportunities in the space and provide an important resources for the southern end of Phenix City.

PROPOSED

EXISTING

Facility Improvements PROPOSED

EXISTING

90

Meadowlane Park

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Pin

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ja hu

Lob lolly Pine

s Cypres

“Green Gi

a

Gi rb ant Western A

Appendix I

C

S ca r

distichum c u

Bald

en Gre

Lon gleaf Pine

m iu

Tax o

d

sh rcus umard ue ii

T

s

W h it e Oak

let Oak

mericana cu a lt s

rs

palustri

m e ri can Hornbea

us coccine erc a u Q

a

” nt

nu s Pi

w Oak

ea rn H ophornb

Sh

n

iva

Willo

Q

a

us alb

ars ltiv

ll s phe os cult iv cu r e

s ar

Qu

ck Tupelo

erc Qu

m

Ulm u

as te

E

Bla

ya virginian str

ar

s

B

s ar

O

ar Maple

iv irch cult

us carolinia

m

ylvatica cu ltiv as s s

Ri ver B

pin ar

a

S ug

nigra cult iva

A

s ar aple Cultiv

ula et

rs

Re dM

Ny

er saccharum Ac

or vit ae

rubrum cultiv ar s

A

r ce

Canopy Trees

Am er

ican Elm

cus lyrat ue r a

s macroca rcu rp e u

Ze rs lkov a cultiva

This is a graphically represented plant list of those already selected and described in city ordinance. The importance of this list is to make it easy to find specific trees or shrubs for specific habitats. The plants are categorized for native, exotic, and invasive, and by habitat. Plants categorized as water loving do best in wetlands or riparian habitats (and can be used in bioswales). Those classified as upland plants like to stay more dry. Streetscape trees are chosen for their growth forms and pollution tolerance.

Ma g

deodara cul s ti ru

lia no

grandiflora c

ul

ars tiv

rrata cu ltiv a

nuttalli cu lti

Nutta l Oak l

Bur Oak

Ce d

a se

k

rs va

ese Elm

rcu p o a

rs

s

Chin

v ko

Ze l

arvifolia cult iv ar

p us

O ve

s cu er

rs

Qu

Q

Da wn Redwood

s tree cultivar

va

Lau rel Oak

Ul m

) go (male

e

oia glyptostr u o q s ide

Q

a

Tu lip

a

rcus laurifo ue li

Gink

on endr tulipife r

bo

h rican Beec

od iri

Met as

i

L

fol

a

Am e

Q

gko bilob a Gin a

F

ag

us grandi

De

r odar Ceda

Evergreen

Native

Exotic

Invasive

Deciduous

Water Loving

Upland

Streetscape

Appendix I

So

uthe

a oli n g rn Ma

Co mm

Yos y hino Cherr na

My

rica cerifera

Wax yrtle M

Appendix I

s

na C

ars tiv

et Bay Magn

a oli

ra on Sassaf

o l in i a n a c car ul s u

li ro Ca

Sw e

K

as albid safr um s a

C herry Laurel

be rry

e vic

uteria pani lre cu e o

ni cle d Go

Vite x

ns is

tiv a rs

yedoe

ul

us x un r P

Ca ell rolina Silverb

Pru n

olia virginia

eri can Smoke

e Tre

ce Ser

n ag

Ch

t ain R ld e n

us-castus c

a se

u

ars ltiv

gn Ma

tiv

rillian

a lat

s

ines e Pist

e ac h

nB

Pa

usa Dogwood

carolina cul

s

Am

sia le

Ha

s obovat us tinu o C

rnus kousa

cia chinen sta si i P

Ch

le ark Map

m

le se Map

ar

Ko

alk B

S

Co

Ch

Ja p a ne

r i ll i a c e

tu Au

Trid ent Maple

ndiflora ‘Au tu

re e

rs

Amelanch ier

a

ra xg

nB

Ac

tu m c u ltiv

rs

e

alma rp

m

e ri a n u m c erg ult u b

iva

Ac er

Understory Trees

er leucoderm Ac e

s ar v i t tree cul

C

C

s nu or

florida cult i va rs

h

anthus virgi ni ion

s cu

h

anthus retus ion u

C

ult iv

s

Ce r

ensis c

s ar

anad c cis

a

Ilex latifolia

rrotia persica

rsian arrotia P

us er

virginiana

cu

ars ltiv

This is a graphically represented plant list of those already selected and described in city ordinances. The importance of this list is to make it easy to find specific trees or shrubs for specific habitats. The plants are categorized for native, exotic, and invasive, and by habitat. Plants categorized as water loving do best in wetlands or riparian habitats (and can be used in bioswales). Those classified as upland plants like to stay more dry. Streetscape trees are chosen for their growth forms and pollution tolerance.

rs

eri i va t l can u Holly c

Pe

wo o d

ttenuata culti a va x x

h,

a

m

paca cultiva rs

nn Sa v a

ll y rleaf Ho

Sour

ia nese Magnol

xo Ile

A

Lu ste

Pa

d ering Dogwoo

Fo ste

k lat a P r, East

Ea ste

da rn Red Ce

r

Ja pa

Il e

s ar v i t yrtle cul

rs

eM

m ndru arbor e e yd

Jun ip

ars ltiv

Cr ep

Fl ow

llies

M

x soulan gia

e

ite Fringetre

um

a

olia gn

Wh

Ho

indica/fau rie i

na

mia e o

e

a

stern Redbud

cu

L ag e rst r

Ea

re ine se Fringet

Ox

Ch

Evergreen

Native

Exotic

Invasive

Deciduous

Water Loving

Upland

Streetscape

Appendix I

ar

igela florida We

rnum cultiva u r ib

s ar v i t l u mc

ld

O

Vi rbu rnu

iv talum cult

s

Cleyera

V

emia gymnan tro th s rn

rop e

Appendix I

Oa

Mis ca

Hy d

m chinense alu cu t e

Lo

u ty b u s h

ea

ngea quercif

kle

s hu t n

af Hydrang

Fa sh

la ge i e ioned W

ol

ea

sinensis gra cil l

s

Bea

H

ry

eaf Hydrang

Lor

pane kerria se

a er

Te

Ja

Ber be

Ber be ri

ph

ra yd

us

op

e

e

A

Ab el

s

Ga rd

macro

ars ltiv

s

K

Bi gL

arf Gardenia

witzia amabi li olk

ea ng a r

ry Glow Barber

im

rria japonic a Ke

Ro se

a yll

Dw

rder Forsythia

e

on P arb ygmy B

bergii ‘R os e

ia

inoides jasm ‘R a a ni

’ ans dic

ia

F

rim s

y ttle brush Bucke

n thu ir s

ow Gl

rea

belia

thia x interme y s d or

Bo

Bo

r va i t l cu

nbergii astro p

C

los sy A

a

G

hu st

sp culu arviflo es r

pu ur

randiflora c ult

rs iva

ia

xg

Deciduous Shrubs

Ma

iden Grass

Ex

Cortade ria

n inum udiflor m u s

Ja

J

v Itea

Pa ni

Rh a

Ca me

rs

Wi nter Jasmine

e rida Jasmin

indica lepis cu o i lt ph

a cultiv ars irae p S

ss

air

ie S k

y Swit

ra c hg

This is a graphically represented plant list of those already selected and described in city ordinances. The importance of this list is to make it easy to find specific trees or shrubs for specific habitats. The plants are categorized for native, exotic, and invasive, and by habitat. Plants categorized as water loving do best in wetlands or riparian habitats (and can be used in bioswales). Those classified as upland plants like to stay more dry. Streetscape trees are chosen for their growth forms and pollution tolerance.

di an

In

Pr

ar s

Bu d

H

a

Mis c

um florid um

y’

ss Maiden Gra

Pearl ush b

rs iva

Sk

a rf

f ar w eathers D

m

Flo

o’

Dw

ry F

min s a

t ea ’s Garnet I

virgatum ‘Pra ir

da racem hor o oc

sa

G

ie

him us

m cu

Iv o

’ net ar

k

nry

‘I v

eathers’

‘Henry’s

ana ‘Pumila’

yF or

ars

rs

inia ri g

He

Hy rs pe ricum cultiva sinensis ‘Yo

llo se

Sa rs san qua cultiva

i va y Bush cult

um cult i va eric yp

s hu nt

sasanqua cu a i ll l

tiv

B

ut ter fl

i

rs va

d

a davidii cult lei

H aw

Shrub

Appendix I

Sp

iv ult c e thorn

irea cultivars

Native

Exotic

Invasive

Water Loving

Upland

Streetscape

Ligustr

um

Bu x

Bu x

Jun ip

Ju n i pe

Bu x

I

s

c’

in es ti v e Juniper cul

Sh

ra fragrantiss e c i ni

Ma

ore Juniper

honia beale i

a

Lo

ry

Il

e

m

L

onferta ‘Blu

ium’

e

cu

sc ru

ifol

o inb ow Leucoth

onicum ‘Ro tu jap nd

lia

Ra

Anise-tree

inensis

rean xwood Bo

cifi

Ch

r pon iva t l u H o ll y c

hoe popu cot lifo u e

e

ch rus

Ko

ars ltiv

parviflo ium ru ll ic

m

rs

Ya u

Ja od pa n ese Boxwo

Pa

r omito ia cultiv v a ex

od rgreen boxwo

e

ar s

int e

u

icrophylla ko m r s

a

W

u

icrophylla ja m po s

an

er rgreen Barb

ult i

a

int e

rophylla c

nic

W

u

ic sm

rs va

B

eris juliana erb e

Evergreen Shrubs

Cu

m rlyl eaf Ligustru

Appendix I

W

inte

kle r Honeysuc

Le

ath

erleaf Maho

nia

r

s

us iper parson

Pa

s heterop thu h n a

Ho

s lly O anthu sm

r rsons Junipe

a sm

Fo

nthus x fortu

n

ei

Os m

r e Rug Junipe

us y ll

Na ndina ultivars c

Jun ipe

s

n Ju

‘

y rry Holl

rtu ne s

us

an

ar

s

nthus Fragr

horizontalis

Inkb e

O

ma s O

s ru

Blu

An r dorra Junipe

rs iva

domestica c a ult n di

ltiv nes u c e Holly

i

ipe arbor Jun

labra cultiva rs

n i’ ilto

sa ’

rH

I

I

‘P

Juni

orizontalis

Ja pa

xg Ile

W

pe r

H o ll y

mo lu

h us

r iva t l u c

r’

Junip eru

rizontalis ‘B a arbo

Ba

ine se

renata cultiv c ar x le

s

ho

gei ela

Ch

us n g ea

rH

s

be n

ornuta cultiv c ar x le

ng e

s

Eb

Na n

nus ebbe

i

E

ag lae

nth Osma

Tea Olive

This is a graphically represented plant list of those already selected and described in city ordinances. The importance of this list is to make it easy to find specific trees or shrubs for specific habitats. The plants are categorized for native, exotic, and invasive, and by habitat. Plants categorized as water loving do best in wetlands or riparian habitats (and can be used in bioswales). Those classified as upland plants like to stay more dry. Streetscape trees are chosen for their growth forms and pollution tolerance.

Shrub

Appendix I

Native

Exotic

Invasive

Water Loving

Upland

Streetscape

Danny Bivins

Kasey Ryan Bowles MEPD

Caty Rushing

Leigh Askew Elkins

Joanna Schwevens MLA

MHP

Ashley Stinson MLA

Josh h Williams ms BLA