Preliminary Design Strategy
In August 2009, the City of Syracuse selected one of two concepts for transportation improvements along the Corridor, which will advance into a detailed design analysis. Known as Concept A, the distinguishing features include new bicycle lanes, medians at various locations for additional green space and plantings, and various traffic calming measures to improve the safety for pedestrians, bicyclists and vehicles.
Design work is focused on the main Connector route of the Corridor, and is funded by federal transportation funds obtained by the City of Syracuse totaling $5.79 million. The City of Syracuse is following a design process outlined by the New York State Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration. Based on the process, the design team led by Barton & Loguidice (B&L) developed two strategic concepts for transportation improvements along the Connector, which consists of portions of University Avenue, East Genesee Street, and East and West Fayette streets. Both options were presented to the community in a public meeting held at Syracuse Stage in June 2009.
The selection of Concept A represents a strategy for apportioning vehicle and bicycle lanes, adding pedestrian improvements, enhancing public transportation, and improving vehicle traffic – goals first envisioned during the Connective Corridor public sessions and design competition. The concept is based on traffic data and an analysis of current physical conditions and safety measures along the main Connector route. Final design work is expected to further refine the designs shown below, based on block-by-block analysis of the design strategy, expected costs for construction, and community feedback.
Although the federal funds will allow for the preliminary design of the entire Connector route, funding is limited to construction along East Genesee Street.
View of University Ave, with new two-way traffic and bicycle track.
View of East Genesee Street with median and bicycle lanes.
View of East Fayette Street near Fayette Firefighters Park.
View of East Fayette Street in Armory Square.
The next step in the process will be the completion of a preliminary design report outlining estimated costs and expected transportation impacts for Concept A. Once reviewed and approved by state and federal officials, B&L will be able to complete final design work, which is expected in Summer 2010. Construction is planned for Spring 2011.
In addition to the transportation improvement project, B&L is working on other designs for the Corridor. Funded by New York State, additional design work includes lighting, signage, façade improvements, and other enhancements to public spaces at key locations along the Corridor. B&L is partnering with urban design and landscape architecture firm OLIN Partnership, and will be working in collaboration with the Connective Corridor Community Working Group.
