YEAR:Fall 2011
SIZE:.25 mile x .5 mile
LOCATION:Franklinton, OH
Franklinton is the last truly undeveloped piece of land in downtown Columbus, OH. Originally located below water level, constant flooding prevented improvement of the area. However, the recent construction of the Scioto Flood Wall and re-zoning of the neighborhood for commercial and residential development has placed Franklinton in a unique position. Located just across the Olentangy River from Downtown Columbus, Bicycle District aims to transform Franklinton into a car minimal commuter neighborhood.
With businesses, sporting venues, and cultural attractions all within a short ride or walk from the neighborhood, The district is designed to optimize conditions for bicyclists. Direct bike lanes connect to downtown for commuters, meandering wooded lanes facilitate leisure riding, and a velodrome is available for serious racing. A bridge connects the neighborhood trails with the existing Olentangy River Trail. Once inside district boundaries, the bicycle trail is arrayed around the perimeter and through the interior of the development. Apartments and businesses on the site look out over green roads and trails rather than towards asphalt streets.
Although designed for bicycle commuters and pedestrians, Bicycle District accommodates vehicular traffic under modified conditions. Vehicular roads operate on the site only for necessary functions like emergency and municipal services. High-speed traffic is selectively filtered to the periphery while cars moving through the neighborhood interior operate only on specific roads at low speeds. The two high-speed roads running through the site are lowered below ground and bridged over, hiding traffic from view. Parking garages are located on the edges of the site and underneath apartment complexes. Bicycle District orients resident’s focus away from cars and parking and towards green spaces with accommodations for active commuting.
