Document Type
Research Report
Original Publication Date
2017
Date of Submission
March 2020
Abstract
Graduate students from the Virginia Commonwealth University Masters in Urban and Regional Planning program were asked to develop a comprehensive redesign plan for the Thompson Street Corridor. The proposed plan outlines recommendations for the corridor that align with the City of Richmond’s effort to build stronger and more dynamic neighborhoods for its residents. A vibrant, thriving and livable corridor requires various characteristics, including safety and walkability, a unique architectural identity, robust recreational spaces and cohesive commercial and residential developments. Although the Thompson Street corridor is located between two robust destinations on the southern and northern ends, Carytown and Scott’s Addition, respectively, the corridor lacks adequate safety, connectivity, destinations and residential and commercial development. To address these issues, we worked with the City of Richmond and the Museum District Association to gain more insight into to the corridor and to assess its current strengths, weaknesses and to determine how features along the corridor are organized spatially and to gain a better understanding of the infrastructural space. Our research led to the proposal of 4 key goals for the corridor: 1) Increase walkability, 2) Enhance the corridor’s identity, 3) Increase transportation safety and 4) Develop key destinations and gateways.
Rights
© The Authors
Is Part Of
Urban and Regional Studies and Planning Reports
Comments
Prepared by URSP 761-902 Studio 1 Class for Mark Olinger, Planning Director, Richmond Department of Planning. Spring 2017, Masters of Urban and Regional Planning Program L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs Virginia Commonwealth University.