Design Process
The City of Syracuse, Syracuse University and National Grid are partnering to bring new ideas and collaborations to design inviting streets and pathways throughout the Connective Corridor.
In 2006, National Grid sponsored a community initiative to develop a vision for the Corridor by gathering ideas and information from city residents, businesses, arts organizations, nonprofits and government agencies. Six public sessions were conducted altogether, followed by a design competition to develop a vision for the Corridor.
The vision includes two primary sections on the Connective Corridor: the Connector route, and the Civic Strip. The Connector serves as the main pedestrian and bicycle transportation route between the University Hill and Downtown Syracuse. Transportaion improvements envisioned for the Connector include dedicated bike lanes, enhanced pedestrian areas, and improved lighting. The vision would also increase vehicle safety and provide more convenient public transporation between the University Hill and Downtown areas.
The Civic Strip is a predominantly pedestrian-friendly area of downtown connecting the OnCenter complex, civic institutions and cultural organizations of downtown with Armory Square. The vision for the Civic Strip calls for streetscape enhancements including attractive lighting, wayfinding signs, additional green space and plantings, and public art – all pieced together to provided an welcoming, walkable experience for those living, working and visiting downtown Syracuse.
In 2008, the City of Syracuse selected local engineering firm Barton & Loguidice to begin the first phase of design work which is focused on transportation improvements along the Connector route. Funded by $5.79 million in federal highway assistance to the City of Syracuse, preliminary design work is expected to be completed in Fall 2009, and final design completed in Summer 2010 with construction expected along East Genesee Street in 2011.
In 2007, Assemblyman William Magnarelli announced a $20 million New York State-funded project to focus on design work on the Civic Strip, as well as other improvements to the entire Connective Corridor. In 2009, Onondaga County received a $1.5 million federal grant to design and construct sections of the Civic Strip surrounding the OnCenter Complex.
Nationally renowned urban design and landscape architecture firm OLIN Partnership from Philadelphia is partnering with B&L to implement the state funded project, in collaboration with the Connective Corridor Community Working Group. For a review of Olin’s prior work experience, you can download their presentation to the Community Working below (pdf document).
Click here to download the Olin presentation
Download OLIN presentation (PDF)
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