Bjarke Ingels Group and New York studio WXY have released images showing their shared vision for a renewed Downtown Brooklyn decorated with pedestrian-friendly streetscapes and public spaces. The masterplan, commissioned by the non-profit Downtown Brooklyn Partnership, covers 370 acres worth of land in Downtown Brooklyn from Columbus Park to the Barclay's Center.
The comprehensive study, called the Downtown Brooklyn Public Realm Action Plan, analyzes the borough's network of streets, sidewalks, plazas and public spaces and attempts to improve the walkability of the local environment.
Noting the area's rich mix of "local and national retail and businesses; educational, cultural and government institutions; and a booming residential sector," the proposal offers glimpses of a refreshed public realm replete with street furniture, widened sidewalks and enhanced pedestrian crossings.
The proposal recommends a broad pedestrianization of the area, to be accomplished by enforcing vehicle restrictions and reorienting streets to prioritize foot traffic. A number of new parks and plazas would be built, and new connections to bridge the gap in Brooklyn's bike lane network would be provided.
"Working closely with DBP, WXY and the wider local community, we look forward to creating a greener, safer and bolder Downtown—our proposal paints the already lively character of the neighbourhood with a distinct colour palette and new public furniture collections," said Bjarke Ingels, Founder of BIG. "Brooklynites can enjoy a cohesive streetscape experience, one with improved walkability, pedestrian and cyclist safety, double the greenery and new art beacons."
The design will go through multiple rounds of stakeholder meetings throughout 2020.
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