The Community Design Collaborative has had the opportunity to explore walkability through its work with community-based nonprofits. Here’s a sampling of how we’re is helping neighborhoods rethink their streets and sidewalks, enliven their built environments, and enhance connectivity.
Bache Martin Elementary School/Fairmount CDC Conceptual Master Plan for Exterior Improvements A community task force of parents, teachers, students, neighbors, and government agencies collaborated on a master plan to connect two buildings, create green school yards, and improve surrounding streets and sidewalks. A key element of the plan is a crosswalk that calms traffic and collects stormwater. Value of Services: $35,000
Nicetown CDC Gateways and Bridges: Conceptual Design for a Neighborhood Center This corridor improvement plan offers design strategies for bringing vibrancy to several blocks of Germantown Avenue by connecting key landmarks and community assets including the Roosevelt Expressway Bridge underpass, Nicetown Park, Edward T. Steele Public School, and the Wayne Junction train station. Value of Services: $26,500
Friends of Marconi Plaza/Lower Moyamensing Civic Association Conceptual Master Plan for Park Improvements Traffic calming is a key aspect of this conceptual plan for a large neighborhood park in South Philadelphia. Landscape improvements recommended for the park would allow park users to safely cross busy South Broad Street, which bisects the park. Value of Services: $34,500
Park(ing) Day Philadelphia Pallet Park Temporary projects can be a great way to try out new ideas for walkability. This mini-park was designed by Collaborative volunteers and built from recycled pallets for Park(ing) Day, a multi-city event that encourages people to re-imagine meter parking spots as green public space. Value of Services: $27,000
Roxborough Development Corporation Conceptual Design for 6170 Ridge Avenue Park A driveway between shops was redesigned as an inviting link between a public parking lot and the Ridge Avenue Commercial Corridor in Roxborough. The new connection is enlivened by a curving pedestrian path, planting beds, a sitting area, and a mural. Value of Services: $40,000
