conceptual streetscape design guidelines for the 7th and 9th street corridors from mt. vernon square...

8/2/2019 Conceptual Streetscape Design Guidelines for the 7th and 9th Street Corridors From Mt. Vernon Square to Rhode Isl

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Shaw, Mt. Vernon Square, Blagden Alley/Naylor Court Area

Conceptual Streetscape

Design Guidelinesfor the

7th and 9th Street Corridors

from Mt. Vernon Square

to Rhode Island Avenue


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Table of Contents

What is smART streets?

I. Introduction

About This Streetscape Design Guideline

Background

Existing Plans and Guidelines

II. The Area in History

III. Pedestrian and Streetscape SWOT Assessment

(Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)

IV. Street Character

Primary Connectors--7th, 9th, and O Streets

P Street between 7th and 9th Streets

L Street Connector

Rhode Island Avenue

Historic Alleyways

V. Recommendations and Concepts

Primary Connectors--7th, 9th, and O Streets

Recommendations

Concepts for Further Consideration

P Street between 7th and 9th Streets

Recommendations


L Street Connector

Recommendations


Rhode Island Avenue Boulevard

Recommendations


Historic Alleyways--Blagden Alley and Naylor Court

Recommendations


VI. Appendix

A. Lighting & Street Furniture

B. Paving & Treepits

C. Trees

D. Reivew Process

E. Crime Prevention Through Environmental

Design Consideration

F. Web References & Image Credits

G. Vicinity Map

H. Opportunities Map

Table of Contentsiii

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Conceptual Streetscape Design Guidelines for Shaw


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What is smARTstreets?


smART streetsis a fully-funded community project that will enliven thepedestrian environment in neighborhoods around the Convention Centerthrough public art and good urban design. Funded through the District of

Columbia Department of Transportation's TEA-21 program,smART streetswill:.

Install art at three important neighborhood locations.Develop design concepts to guide future planned

streetscapeimprovements.This initiative is one important outcome of the Washington ConventionCenter Authority's (WCCA) $1 million Historic Preservation Fund. TheFund was established as a result of the Convention CenterEnvironmental Impact Study. The Fund is administered by the NTHP.

The Fund also was used for exterior rehabilitation grants, a HeritageTrail, and Historic district street signage.

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I. Introduction

Conceptual Streetscape Design Guidelines for Shaw2

Guidelines for improving building facades

Background

In 1997, an Environmental Impact Study for the newConvention Center determined that its constructionwould have a negative effect on the surrounding historicmixed-income neighborhood. Some of the impacts citedincluded parking congestion, truck and other conventioncenter traffic, large building scale relative to the size ofbuildings in the surrounding area, potential displacementof local minority businesses, and potential displacementof low-income minority residents. These impactscontrasted with the new Convention Centers potential togenerate new jobs and retail demand that theneighborhood might not experience otherwise.

As a way to mitigate the negative impacts, the WashingtonConvention Center Authority, (WCCA) established a $1million Historic Preservation Fund. The National Trust forHistoric Preservations (NTHP) Community PartnersProgram serves as the administer of the fund and relatedprograms under a cooperative agreement with WCCA.

To date, approximately $750 thousand have been usedfor the exterior rehabilitation of buildings under a loanand grant program targeted primarily for properties withinthe Shaw, Mt. Vernon and Blagden Alley/Naylor Courthistoric districts, along with other structures in the

surrounding area.

The remaining funds have been used for the following:

Creation of two historic districts--Shaw HistoricDistrict and Mt. Vernon Historic District(Figure lb).

Implementation of historic district street signagedesigned by an advisory board includingthe DC Historic Preservation office, DDOT,Cultural Tourism DC ,and participants from thehistoric districts. Measuring two feet indiameter, the signs are located at key

intersections along the historicdistrict boundaries (Figure lc).

Establishment of a Heritage Trail and relatedtrail signage that was completed in late 2005.(Figure ld)

Completion of a Phase I Public Art Study in thespring of 2002 resulting in the identification of21 art opportunity sites including severalpriority sites, and the need to developconceptual streetscape design guidelines forthe major commercial corridors in the area. Asa result of the Phase I Public Art Study it was

Figure Ib: Historic District Map

Shaw

Historic

District

Mount Vernon Square

Historic District

Blagden Alley/ Naylor Court

Historic

Districts

Figure Ic: Historic District Signage

L STREET

7THS

TREET9

THS

TREET

RHOD

EISLAN

DAVE

.

P STREET

O STREET

NEWY

ORKA

VENU

EMASSACHUSETTS AVENUE

Convention

Center

Greater U Street

Historic District


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I. Introduction


determined that substantial additional fundingwill be needed.

In order to move the project ahead, the NTHP presentedDDOT with an application for Federal TEA-21 funding(Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century). TEA-21 funds were targeted since 7th Street, 9th Street andRhode Island Avenue are federal highways, and fundsmay be used for transit enhancement activities such ashistoric preservation, landscaping, public art, pedestrianaccess, bicycle access, and enhanced access forpersons with disabilities. In 2004 the application wassuccessful and $2 million was awarded for a Phase Iproject that would:

A) Produce and install public art at three sites

(Figure Ie): Carter G. Woodson Park, located at 9th Streetand Rhode Island Avenue, where a larger thanlife size commemorative sculpture of Dr.Woodson will evoke the noble stature andlegacy of his life and work (Figure If);

Kennedy Recreation Center, located at 7th andO Streets, where a sculpture will highlight theentrance area leading from the sidewalk to thePlayground and recreation building (Figure Ig).

B) Develop a conceptual streetscape design

guideline to consider the following strategies:

Linking downtown, Mount Vernon Square, andthe New Convention Center to neighborhoodbusinesses along 7th and 9th Streets, and tothe O Street Market as the areas potentialtown center, as well as the UptownDestination DistrictEnhancing corridors that link the District to theregion such as 7th Street connecting theDistrict to Silver Spring, Maryland and theCapital Beltway, and Rhode Island

Avenue (US Route 1) connecting the historicdistricts and downtown to the University

of Maryland, the Capital Beltway, and route I-95 Improving L street as an entrance corridor andpedestrian connector to the New ConventionCenter and New York Avenue at L Street as agateway to the downtown

Existing Plans, Strategies and Guidelines

A number of existing plans, strategies and guidelineshave been developed over the previous several yearsthat have been instrumental in the development of theseguidelines. Several of these documents are cited hereas references that provide a wealth of information about

Figure Ie:Art Sites Map

RHOD

EISL

ANDA

VENU

E

7THS

TREET

O STREET

9THS

TREET

Carter G.WoodsonPark

KennedyPlayground

Figure Id: Heritage Trail Map

M STREET

New York Ave /L StreetGateway???


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I. Introduction

4

community-wide and area-wide planning issues andopportunities. The previous recommendations that havehelped to shape these guidelines are:

Convention Center Area Strategic Development

Plan

Study the traffic patterns on 6th, 7th, 9th and11th streets to determine how best to movevehicles and pedestrians through theneighborhood

Improve appearance of gateway intersections Extend the retail corridor from the Convention

Center to the Uptown Destination district Encourage a mixed-use development on the O

Street Market block that is the focal point for

the retail corridor Improve storefront facades along 7th & 9thStreet

Rezone 7th Street between O and RhodeIsland Avenue, 9th Streets to require that newdevelopment include ground floor retail(approximately 200,000 sq. ft.)

Locate Convention Center headquarters hotelat 9th and Massachusetts Avenue as thesouthern anchor of the retail corridor (andgateway corridor)

Shaw Main Streets Design Committee Work Plan--

Community Vision

Create visually appealing streetscapes alongthe 7th and 9th Street Corridors with 0%vacancy and 100% affordability

Clean, crime-free streets, tree-lined streets, notrash anywhere

Beautiful brick sidewalks and walkablestreets,100% Jefferson herringbone sidewalks

Lots of street lights to enliven the night Use design to unify the disparate elements of

the corridors

Emphasize the historic and cultural heritage ofShaw Create a safe, appealing, walkable, and vibrant

commercial corridor that is invitingto residents and visitors alike.

Strategic Neighborhood Action Plans (SNAPS)

Develop tree plan Renovate and provide additional planting on the

grounds of the Watha T. Daniel Library Install and maintain additional trash cans,

Figure If: Carter G. Woodson Park

Figure Ig: Kennedy Recreation Center

March 14, 2008Conceptual Streetscape Design Guidelines for Shaw


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The 7th and 9th Street commercial corridors have a richand unique history that began in the mid-nineteenth

century. Since their early development, they have hosteda wide variety of merchants, industries, and businessesthat have provided a myriad of goods and services tosurrounding residential areas and to the city as a whole.

Initial development of the Shaw/Mt. Vernon Square areabegan in the 1830's. During the ante-bellum period, theneighborhood became one of the most densely populatedresidential areas in the city, due to its proximity to thedowntown business district. Commercial developmentquickly followed, spurred by the construction of the NorthernLiberties Market at Mt. Vernon Place in 1842 and thepresence of 7th Street, the first paved road in the District

and the primary transportation route for northbound travel.

During the Civil War and Reconstruction, an influx ofmilitary personnel, government workers, and African-

Americans created a major housing shortage in the cityand a subsequent construction boom. Thousands ofresidential dwellings were erected in the area andcommercial development intensified as new businesseswere established to meet the needs of the growing residentbase. By the 1890's streetcar service had been installedon 14th, 11th, 9th, 7th, and 4th Streets, which furthered thegrowth and expansion of the neighborhood. During thisperiod, the population was primarily middle and workingclass and included both African-American and whiteresidents. In the early 1900's, as transportationimprovements created opportunities for development to thenorth, middle-income white residents began moving out ofthe area which then became predominantly African-

American.

Over the next several decades, the neighborhood flourishedas business and commerce continued to grow along U,14th, 9th and 7th Streets. Dozens of new African-Americanbusinesses, fraternal organizations, religious institutions,and entertainment facilities were established. The area

became the center of social, cultural, and economic life forthe District's African-American community and home tosome of the city's most prominent citizens. By the early1940's Shaw/Mt. Vernon Square had become a thriving,prosperous neighborhood.

After World War II, desegregation and the opening of newhousing markets prompted many middle-class African-

Americans to leave. Single-family homes were convertedto multi-family rental dwellings and the density of the areaincreased. The businesses along the commercial corridors

II. The History ofthe Area

Figure IIa: Historic O Street Market

Figure IIb: Old Shaw Jr. High School at 7th & Rhode

Island Avenue


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began to suffer as a result of losing a large segment of theitraditional local customer base and many of them wereforced to close. By the late 1950's, the neighborhood had

begun to decline.

The problems that emerged in the post-World War II periodwere exacerbated by riots that erupted after theassassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1968Countless commercial buildings were damaged and severawere destroyed entirely. Many of the surviving businessesleft the area or closed their operations altogetherThroughout the 1970s and 1980s middle-income residentscontinued to move out of the community causing acontinuation of the areas economic decline, and thecontinued disinvestment of the areas commerciacorridors.

Over the last 15 years however there have been promisingsigns of renewal and revitalization throughout the area. In1991, metro rail service was extended into the neighborhoodwhich increased the accessibility and market reach of locabusinesses, improved the mobility of residents, andenhanced the areas overall livability. Significanredevelopment initiatives have taken root along 14th Streeand U Street, and both corridors are beginning to recapturetheir former health and vibrancy. The redevelopment of theKennedy Playground helped to focus neighborhoodactivities. And the addition of two historic districts in 1999

that encompass the areas immediately to the east andwest of the new Convention Center helped to stabilize theareas character.

Most recently, an increasing demand for inner-city housinghas created significant increases in both the rehabilitationof single-family homes and new residential constructionThe increase in residential activity has in turn expanded theneed for and establishment of residential-serving retail.

Along with the completion of the new WashingtoConvention Center, which has had a major impact on thearea, these housing and retail opportunities are coupled

with difficult challenges for the area. Increased developmenin could impact significantly on the area's existingbusinesses, historic character, and residential complexionIn addition, the retail and service needs generated byconvention attendees and tourists will need to be balancedwith those of local residents and their shopping and relatedservice needs.

Neighborhood History section has been developed from excerpts taken fromthe "Commercial Corridor Development Plan for 7th and 9th Streets" Presented by The National Trust for Historic Preservation, December 2001

II. History of the Area

Figure IId: Historic Carter G. Woodson House

Figure IIc: Historic Architecture on M Street


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Area Strengths

Strong "sense of place" is derived from theareas unique social and cultural history andarchitectural character. (Figure IIIa)

Located adjacent to and within walkingdistance of downtown and wraps around theNew Convention Center.

Good residential and commercial buildingstock highly adaptable for revitalization andrenovation.

Economic momentum building with increasingdemand for residential and residential-servingretail space.

Good access to ground floor retail uses

resulting from a traditional street and sidewalkpattern with significant portions of the 7th and9th Street corridors lined with existing orpotential retail uses.

Good access to Metro, Metrobus, and citytransit services--Shaw/Howard UniversityMetro station at 8th and R Streets; Mt. Vernon

Square/Convention Center Metro station at 7thand M Streets; Major bus routes on 7th & 9thStreets and Rhode Island Avenue; DowntownCirculator bus connects the New ConventionCenter with downtown destinations, Georgetownand Union Station; Bicycle lanes on R Streetconnecting to the Shaw Metro Station andproposed bicycle lanes on 7th Street.

7th Street designated in the citys Great

Streets program and is a major north/southconnection between downtown and theproposed Uptown Destination District; Howard

University; and Silver Spring, MD.

Rhode Island Avenue is a significantgateway to the city and a major east/westconnector between downtown (via historicRoute #1) the University of Maryland, theCapital Beltway and Prince George's County,MD.

Active community organizations have adesire to improve the quality and character ofarea streets and sidewalks (Figure IIIb).

III. SWOT Analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and

threats)


Figure IIIb: Kennedy Recreation Center

Figure IIIa: Buildings on Rhode Island Ave & Logan

In order to better understand the

pedestrian and streetscape issues

facing the general area, andspecifically the study streets, a

series of walking tours, community

meetings, and photographic

analysis were conducted. The

information gained from these

observations and assessments is

outlined in the following listing of

Strengths, Weaknesses,

Opportunities and Threats (SWOT):


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III. SWOT Analysis


Area Weaknesses

Inconsistent streetscape treatment results in

a lack of a visual and functional

cohesiveness--varying and inconsistentsidewalk paving patterns and materials,crosswalk design, tree box treatment, varyingsignage, newspaper boxes, and street lightingcreates visual clutter and a poor public image(Figure IIIc)

Sidewalks in front of retail buildings are notdesigned to promote sidewalk activity--Thelack of sidewalk amenities such as sidewalkcafes, public art, street furniture treatments,attractive street lighting present an uninvitingquality--corner stores and retail establishments

are not taking advantage of wide sidewalks andpotential for attracting pedestrian business

Paving maintenance and repairappearimplemented with less expensive and lessattractive materials creating a patchworkappearance

Large buildings such as the ConventionCenter are out of scale with surroundingneighborhood scale and character

Cobra head street lights located north

of n street on 7th and 9th create a harshuninviting pedestrian image as comparedwith the washington globe fixtures locatedbelow n street

Gas stations at the Rhode Island and andNew Jersey Avenues present a negative

image and detract from the potential ofcreating a beautiful gateway to the Shawneighborhood

Extremely narrow sidewalk on the west side

of 9th Street between Mt. Vernon Square

and N Street not designed to accommodate

large pedestrian loads--some sections of thepedestrian right-of-way measure less thanthree feet from curb to building entrance steps--these narrow areas often further interruptpedestrian traffic with telephone poles, lightpoles or parking meters (figure IIId)

An unattractive industrial image given to 9thStreet by the Giant grocery blank walls, surfaceparking lot, and tractor trailer loading docks(figure IIIe)

Figure IIIc: Empty Corner Buildings and Lots

Figure IIId: Narrow Sidewalks on 9th Street

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Figure IIIe: Inconsistent Streetscape; Store Loading


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III. SWOT Analysis


Poor quality of commercial signage adds toan uninviting image and lack of considerationof the historic character of many retailstorefronts

Numerous unattractivesidewalk grates inhigh pedestrian areas, especially along 7thStreet add to poor sidewalk use and image

Mature trees, especially along Rhode IslandAvenue, buckle sidewalks to a height of sixinches or more creating significant pedestrianhazards--flattening sidewalks at the base ofmature trees will dramatically affect the healthand life of the trees

Trash, poorly kept empty lots, and graffitidetract from the visual quality of the area andfosters a perception of poor security and neglec

Tour buses and vehicles appear to be the

dominant transit mode rather than easypedestrian access and inviting pedestrianenvironments

Opportunities

Historic districts and buildings create a

unique neighborhood image that can enhancethe areas attractiveness to pedestrians comingfrom downtown and the New Convention Cente

The historic O Street Market/Giant site offer

an exceptional an opportunity for creating a

neighborhood village or town center--acentral place that could focus public attentiontoward the area (Figure IIIf).

7th and 9th Streets are major vehicularnorth- south connectors that require

pedestrian improvement in order to fulfill their

potential as major pedestrian pathways thatconnect downtown to the areas historicresources and retail establishments includingaccess to U Street and the Uptown DestinationDistrict

The current sidewalk and street patternsoffers numerous opportunities for additionalgreen spaces, plazas and parks, sidewalk cafesshaded sitting areas,and public art sites thatwould enhance the pedestrian experience andthe areas attractiveness (Figure IIIf).

Figure IIIg: Gateway Triangle at L Street & New York

Figure IIIf: Entrance Plaza to Mount Vernon Square/

Convention Center Metro Station.

Figure IIIf: Historic O Street Market Site


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Metro Station plazas provide opportunitiesfor creating vibrant art filled gateways to the

area (Figure IIIg)

New development and the new Convention

Center should promote increased interest in

the area and access to local businesses

Kennedy Recreation Center provides acentral place and public venue for

community based initiatives and programs--located next to the O Street Market, the parkadds to the image of a central place inthe heart of the area

Rhode Island Avenue presents anopportunity to create a majestic boulevardas a gateway to the area--a greened, artfilled, decoratively landscaped entranceway to th

Threats

Actual and perceived threat of crime andlack of public safety within the area threthe pedestrian use of the area for residents andvisitors

Poorly lit, neglected, visually uninvitingbuilding facades add to a blighted image

especially along 7th and 9th Streets (Figure IIIh.)

Competition from nearby development in thedowntown area to the south and the UptownDestination District and U Street to the northpresent a threat to developing businesses in thearea

Increasing property value threatens dislocationof family and neighborhood resident-ownedretail and business establishments that willthreaten one of the areas characteristics thatpeople find attractive

Potential for more large-scale developmentwithin and directly adjacent to the area that willthreaten its historic character and traditionalretail street image unless carefully designed developed to achieve pedestrian andneighborhood goals (Figure IIIi).

Mature trees that buckle sidewalks limitsidewalk accessibility and safety. Sidewalkrepairs that damage roots threaten the life tree. (Figure IIIj).

III. SWOT Analysis


11

Figure IIIg: Neglected Corner Treatment

Figure IIIh: Parking Lots Adjacent to the Roadways

Figure IIIi: Neglected Corner Treatments


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on the west side of the street that most likelywill be topped with residential/office uses.(Figure IVc).

Moving northward, the street is notable for fairlydense low- and high-rise apartment buildings thatare set back from the sidewalk with wide plantingstrips creating a residential character (Figure IVd).

The center of the street, between Mt. VernonSquare and Rhode Island Avenue, ischaracterized by the historic O Street Market,Giant Foods, and the Kennedy Playground.

Toward Rhode Island Avenue the street is flankedby low-rise housing and single story retail stores.

The most significant difference in the quality ofthe street environment may be observed at 7thand N Streets. To the south of N Street thestreetscape includes the consistent use of a newsidewalk paving pattern, street trees with metaltree grates, and new double-head WashingtonGlobe street lights. In contrast, the streetscapelocated to the north of N Street is characterizedby large-scale cobra head street lights, and theinconsistent use of sidewalk paving materials,plant materials, trees, and tree box treatments.(Figure IVe).

9th Street between Mt. Vernon Square and O

Street presents a challenging streetscape andpotentially unsafe pedestrian environment.

The east and west sides of 9th Street betweenMt. Vernon Square and N Street are extremelydifferent in their design and quality. The east sideis characterized by the wide sidewalks and cool

colors that surround the New Convention Center.In stark contrast, the west side of the street ischaracterized by historic brick retail storefrontfacades and extremely narrow sidewalks thatmeasure less than three feet in some locationsmaking it impossible for large numbers ofpedestrians to use the sidewalk safely. (FigureIVf). In many places the pedestrian right-of-way isalso obstructed by telephone poles, sign poles,parking meters, and wide front steps leading tosecondary story levels in the historic buildings.

IV. Street Character


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Figure IVd: 7th Street Low Rise Housing

Figure IVe: Intersection of 7th & N Streets marks the

change in existing streetscape character

Figure IVf: 9th Street Building Character


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21/50Conceptual Streetscape Design Guidelines for Shaw

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Rhode Island Avenue "Boulevard"

Rhode Island Avenue is a major access route (US Route 1)that has historically connected the District of Columbia withthe University of Maryland and the City of Baltimore. In thesection extending from 4th Street NE to Logan Circle NW,the avenue takes on the characteristics of a grandboulevard which, as defined by LEnfants city plan, is abroad street with a central median separating the oppositeflows of traffic. The boulevard concept is further reinforcedby the far reaching vistas that extend from east of NorthCapital Street to the Potomac River and the skyscrapers ofRosslyn in northern Virginia.

Recent improvements to curbs and gutters, medianplantings, and general maintenance have helped toreinforce the boulevard image in the section of RhodeIsland Avenue located mostly to the east of Florida AvenueHowever, the section between Florida Avenue and LoganCircle, the section that creates a gateway to the Shaw andMt. Vernon historic districts and to the 7th and 9th Streetcorridor, requires a variety of improvements.

Several key issues that characterize Rhode Island Avenueare:

The large trees that line the boulevard,andcreate a mantle of green that frames views to thedowntown, are fairly old. (Figure IVp). In manyplaces tree roots have undermined sidewalkslifting the concrete paving six to twelve inchesabove their original height. This creates a veryhazardous pedestrian right-of-way. Unfortunately,cutting the roots in order to level the sidewalk, asimplemented in several locations, will ultimatelyshorten the tree's life.

Inconsistent boulevard image from FloridaAvenue to Logan Circle created by different

crosswalk patterns, large scale cobra head streetlights, a sporadic mix of median plants and trees,and the general lack of a coherent visual image.

Corner commercial and retail uses add to the

visual clutter. Although highly desirable, cornercommercial and retail uses surrounded by chainlink fences, lined wide broken sidewalks andneglected planting areas, and andcharacterized by vacant looking building frontsgreatly detract from the Avenues image(Figure IVq).

IV. Street

Character

Figure IVo: Location Map

Figure IVq: Rhode Island Ave and 7th Street -

Visual Clutter

Figure IVp: Tree Lined Streets with Planted

Median

RHOD

EISL

ANDA

VENU

E

Q STREET

7THS

T

REET

9THSTREET

LoganCircle

NEWJERSEY

AVE.


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Historic Alleyways--Blagden Alley and

Naylor Court

Blagden Alley and Naylor Court are among the fewalleyways in the city that are actively occupied with a mixresidential and retail uses, and that demonstrate thehistoric role alleys have played in the economic and sociallife of the city.

Historically alleyway properties were developed as stablesand carriage houses. As the population grew many of theinitial commercial uses were succeeded by residential usesoften inhabited by household workers and the working

poor.

Several key issues that characterize Blagden Alley andNaylor Court are:

The historic mix of uses will likely change asthe attractiveness of the alleyways continue to

grow. Traditional small retail establishmentssuch as auto oriented businesses currently existin a sometimes uneasy functional relationshipwith new businesses and newly renovatedresidences.

DDOTs recently completed installation ofbrick paving throughout the Blagden Alley andNaylor Court area creates a significant unifyingquality that helps to visually tie the area together(Figure IVs).

The use of cobra head street lights in

alleyways creates a contemporary look andlighting scale that detracts from the uniquehistoric character of the alleyways. Althoughrequired by DDOT, several options to soften thelighting image, while maintaining security, areneeded (Figure IVt).

Improvements and decorative detail added to

alleyway entrances and the two to four story

tall brick buildings that shape the alleywayshelp to enhance the historic character andquirkiness of the alleyways.

IV. Street

Character


19

Figure IVs: Newly Paved Alleys

Figure IVt:

Cobrahead

Lighting

Figure IVr: Location Map

RHOD

EISL

ANDA

VENU

E

N STREET

9THS

TREET

Convention

Center

O STREET


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Public Parking--in general, this zone will overlayportion of the Pedestrian Zone or the CurbZone to allow for a sidewalk amenity at aspecific location. Amenities may include elementsuch as an outdoor caf, merchandise displayarea, advertisement, small public seating areas, a work or art. Generally amenity zones are locatein front of a specific property, although they mayalso include small sitting areas located adjacent tthe sidewalk in an area created by a buildingsetback.

Depending on sidewalk width it may not bepossible to incorporate all three zones in a

sidewalk design.

Streets, the area reserved for vehicles locatedbetween the street curbs, are generally defined bthe following zones:

Crosswalks and intersection boxes designed tconnect sidewalks at street crossings and tovisually define the intersection between corners.

Curbs and gutters designed to capture waterrunoff and to define the edge of the sidewalkand separate vehicular and pedestrian traffic(Figure Vd).

Parking lanes designed as either parallel ordiagonal configurations to allow vehicles to park othe street adjacent to the street curb.

Drive lanes designed to allow the unobstructedflow of vehicular traffic

Turn lanes and merge lanes designed to allowvehicles to either exit or enter drive lanes

Shared Bicycle/Bus lanes designed to allowbuses and bicycle traffic to move quickly throughother vehicular traffic (Figure Ve).

Median strips designed to separate wide multi-lane streets with a safety barrier betweenoncoming lanes of traffic. Medians are oftenlandscaped to create a boulevard effect.

Safe pedestrian zones designed at theintersection of median strips and crosswalks toallow pedestrians to shorten their walk across wistreets and to rest in a safe area in the middle othe street.

V.Recommendations

and Concepts


21

Figure Vd:Granite Curb and Brick Gutters

Figure Ve: Bike Lane

Figure Vc: Crosswalks Visually Standing Out



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Primary Connectors --7th , 9th and O Streets

Objectives

Create a quality pedestrianenvironment that a) results in acoherent visual image for the 7thand 9th Street corridors from Mt.Vernon Square to Rhode Island

Avenue Attract people from downtown to area

businessesLink the downtown, through the areato the Uptown Entertainment District

Provide a good pedestrian environmenfor the Heritage Trail and sidewalksthat connect the areas historicdistrictsEnhance the important role of the OStreet Market as a central "place"Preserve the historic character of thearea

Figure Vf: Streetscape Character Plan

Figure Vg: Streetscape Character Plan Figure Vh: Location ma


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Recommendations

Pedestrian zone

Concrete unit pavers in an aggregate color should be used to definethe pedestrian zone, the sidewalk area located between the buildingor property line and the curb or curb zone.

In general, the pedestrian zone should be no less than 6 feet wideand provide an unobstructed pathway to allow two people to walkside by side.

Furnishing area

Brick pavers in a running bond pattern should be used to visuallydefine the curb zone located between the pedestrian zone and thecurb.

In general, curb zones should be no less than 4 and up to 6feet wide.

Curb zones should not be incorporated in sidewalks that are lessthan seven feet wide from building or property line to the streetcurb.

When street trees are incorporated in the curb zone, curb zonewidth should be no less than 4 feet to allow for adequate tree boxsize and drainage. On narrow sidewalks, portions of the pedestrian

zone may be reduced to no less than 6 feet wide toaccommodate a 4 feet wide tree box.

Handicap rampsHandicapped ramps that connect the sidewalk corner with the streetcrosswalk should be made of concrete to match pedestrian zonecolor.

Ramps should incorporate a detectable warning surface texture thatdifferentiates the ramp from the concrete pavers.

Public parkingConcrete unit pavers in a contrasting but complementary color with

the pedestrian zone should be used to visually define amenityzones. Four inch wide brick banding in a running bond patternshould define amenity zone edges.

Amenity zones should be no less than five feet wide and shouldallow for a minimum of a four feet wide unobstructed pedestrianright-of-way adjacent to all sides of the zone.

Amenity zones may overlay areas in the pedestrian zone withoutobstructing pedestrian traffic, or overlay areas in the curb zone.

Amenity zone paving provided by individual property or business

V. Primary Connectors-- 7th , 9th and O

Streets


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Figure Vi: Enlarged Streetscape Plan

PEDESTRIANZONE

PUBLICPARKINGFURNISH-

ING AREA



24

owners may be incorporated into the design, especially for aesthetic

purposes such as artist inspired amenity zone murals or pavingpatterns using special paving materials.

Street Lighting

Single Washington Globe street lights should be installed at thestreet curb throughout 7th, 9th, and O Streets in a similar spacingpattern to the street lighting located around the New ConventionCenter.

Street trees

The following DDOT approved street trees should be installed:

7th Street

Chinese Elm - Ulmus parvioliaPrinceton Elm - Ulmus americana PrincetonWillow Oak - Quercus phellos

9th StreetRed Maple - Acer rubrum

Princeton Elm - Ulmus americana Princeton Japanese Zelkova - Zelkova serrata

O StreetRed Maple - Acer rubrum

Golden Raintree - Koelreuteria paniculata

Sidewalk furnitureStandard sidewalk furniture approved by DDOT should be limited tthe following items:

Plainwell Landscape Forms benches, painted black withrequired center arm rest. (Benches should be located in areas to bdetermined by the community or at secure locations that are

desired by local property or business owners.)

Traditional trash bins painted black shouldbe located near intersections, two to a blockface.

U-shaped bicycle rack, painted black, should be located inappropriate store front or building entranceway locations.

Sidewalk furniture provided by individual property or businessowners may be provided in any design appropriate to theintended use in amenity zones--especially when designed foraesthetic purposes such as works of public art such as artistinspired chairs, tables, fencing that defines the amenity area,awnings, or other elements that will enliven the streetscapewithout obstructing pedestrian zone traffic.

V. Primary Connectors --7th , 9th and O Streets

Figure Vj: Outdoor Cafe


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Curbs and gutters

Install standard DDOT granite curbs and brick gutters throughout primarconnector streets.

Visual buffers

Surface parking lots and vacant lots facing onto the public sidewalkshould be visually buffered from public view.Low fencing, decorativeplanting, and land berm designs may be considered. Consideration forCPTED issues should be given in the design of buffers.

Bicycle paths

The east side of 7th Street should incorporate a shared bicycle/bus laneconsistent with 7th Street below Mount Vernon Square.

On street parking

The amount and location of on street parking should not be altered bythe recommendations proposed, however, see Concepts for FurtherConsideration discussed below.

Bus Stops

Brick pavers in a running bond pattern similar to the curb zone pavingpattern should be incorporated into bus stop design to visually associatethe bus stop area with the curb zone. Consideration should be given toincorporating display photos and posters of historic neighborhood

features in the standard DDOT bus shelter structure design.

Concepts for Further Considerations

West side of 9th Street between Mt. Vernon Square and N Street

Depending on the results of the DDOT vehicular capacity study for 9thStreet, several potential concepts for improving the pedestrian zone, whicis extremely narrow in most places, are possible.

Option A Widen the sidewalk to replace the existing parking-lane and create a newparking lane in a drive-lane. This option will retain current levels of

on-street parking and reduce the number of drive lanes by one.

Option B Widen the sidewalk to replace the current parking lane. This option willreduce on-street parking in the area. It will also create significantpedestrian access without limiting vehicular traffic.

Option CWiden the sidewalk to replace the current parking lane at narrow sidewalkareas only by creating bulb-outs or nubs thereby allowing pedestrians towalk around existing obstructions. This option will reduce, but not totallyeliminate, the number of on-street parking spots. It will also make it


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V. Primary Connectors --

7th , 9th and O Streets


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impossible to utilize the lane for rush-hour traffic.

Option DMaintain the existing narrow sidewalk width and create access tobusinesses from both 9th Street and the alleyway. This option willcreate ground floor retail entrances on two sides of the buildingslining 9th Street which will also likely increase pedestrian trafficalong the alleyway.

O Street and the O Street Market Site located between 7th and

9th Street

In order to highlight the importance of O Street, consider lementingspecial creative artist inspired designs for the intersection box areas

and the corner areas at 7th and 9th Streets.

To increase and improve pedestrian access consider the creation ofa median strip on O Street from 7th Street to 9th Street to includeopportunities for pedestrian safe zones, locations for pubic art, anddecorative tree and planting selections.

To take advantage of the south facing side of the O Street Marketsite, consider the creation of a significantly wide sidewalk that willbe a platform for outdoor cafes, sidewalk activities, and displayareas. In order to facilitate pedestrian traffic, consider locating atraffic signal and a special crosswalk design at the intersection of8th and O Streets.

Consider implementing public art installations, or special tree andplanting designs, on all four sides of the O Street Market site,that are appropriate to the scale of buildings and activities on theopposite side of the street. For example, a decorative tree speciesplanted at all four corners of the site may add to its visual identify.

Consider implementing public art works that will mitigagate theaffects of blank walls or other undesirable visual elements,especially ones facing onto the important streets that surround theO Street Market site.


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V. Primary Connectors --7th , 9th and O Streets

Figure Vl: Proposed 9th Street Widening


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V. P Street between 7thand 9th Streets


27

Objectives

Maintain and build on the traditionaland historic character of the area onboth sides of the street

Protect the residential character ofthe sidewalks and front yard areas onthe north side of the street

Recommendations

Pedestrian zone

Use concrete unit pavers in anaggregate color to define thepedestrian zone, the sidewalk arealocated between the building orproperty line and the curb or curbzone. In general, the pedestrian zoneshould be no less than four feet wideand provide an unobstructed pathwayto allow two people to walk side byside. In all cases, brick banding in

Figure Vn: Streetscape Section

Figure Vm: Streetscape Plan

Figure Vo: Location Ma


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four inch wide running band pattern should define the edges of thepedestrian zone.

Great care must be given to protecting and maintaining the historicfront yard areas of residential properties, especially fences definingthe front yard and walkways or steps providing access to theresidential property.

Curb zone

P between 7th and 9th Streets should incorporate planting strips andbrick pavers in an alternating pattern as a curb curb zone. Thisarrangement will to help reinforce the residential character of the

street as well as provide access to the sidewalk from parked cars.

In general, curb zones should be no less than 4 and up to 5feet wide. Curb zones should not be incorporated in sidewalks thatare less than seven feet wide from building or property line to thestreet curb.

When street trees are incorporated in the curb zone, curb zone widthshould be no less than 4 feet to allow for adequate tree box sizeand drainage. On narrow sidewalks, portions of the pedestrian zonemay be reduced to no less than 4 feet wide to accomodate a 4feet wide tree planting area within the curb zone.

Handicap ramps Handicapped ramps that connect the sidewalk corner with the street

crosswalk should be made of concrete to match pedestrian zonecolor. Ramps should incorporate a detectable warning surfacetexture that differentiates the ramp from the concrete pavers.

Amenity zones Although there are likely to be few amenity zones on P Street, the

following recommendations should apply:

Amenity zones should be no less than five feet wide and should allowfor a minimum of a four feet wide unobstructed pedestrian right-of-way adjacent to all sides of the zone.

Sidewalk furniture provided by individual property or business ownersmay be provided in any design appropriate to the intended use inamenity zones--especially when designed for aesthetic purposes suchas works of public art such as artist inspired chairs, tables, fencingthat defines the amenity area, awnings, or other elements that willenlilven the streetscape without obstructing pedestrian zone traffic.


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V. P Street between 7thand 9th Streets

Figure Vp: Enlarged Streetscape Plan

CURBZONE

PEDESTRIANZONE

AMENITYZONE

Figure Vq: Front Yard Treatment

and Ornamental Railing


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Street LightingSingle Washington Globe street lights should be installed at thestreet curb on all secondary streets. Teardrop street lights should beinstalled on the corners of all intersections.

Street treesThe following DDOT approved street trees should be installed:

P Street Willow Oak - Quercus phellos;Sweetgum - Liquidumbar styracifua

Tree Planting BoxesPlanting beds shall be made flush with the sidewalk.Planting bed edges shall be defined by a four inch wide brickbanding in a running bond pattern.

Street furnitureIn general, no public street furniture is recommended for secondarystreets other than furniture that may be provided in amenity zones.

Curbs and guttersCurbs should be the standard DDOT granite curbs with brick gutters

Visual buffersSurface parking lots and vacant lots facing onto the public sidewalkshould be visually buffered from public view. Low fencing, decorativeplanting, and land berm designs may be considered. Considerationfor CPTED issue should be given in the design of buffers.

Bicycle Paths

No bicycle lanes are anticipated.

On Street Parking

The amount and location of on street parking should not be alteredwith the general recommendations proposed.

Concepts for Further Considerations

Tree box and curb zone planting beds The most significant elements that will help to define the visual

character of P street, other than the sidewalk pattern outlined aboveare planting strips located along the curb zone or at the base ofstreet trees that line each side of the street.

Visual interest would be added to the streetscape if the plantingstrips on both sides of the street were to be planted with perennialsand low ground covers that are specific to that street. This approachwould give added visual detail and uniformity to this section of PStreet.


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V. P Street between 7th

and 9th Streets


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V. L Street Connector

Conceptual Streetscape Design Guildelines for Shaw

30

Objectives

Create a quality pedestrianenvironment along L street as agateway to the New ConventionCenter and downtown

Enhance the visual image of theNew Convention Center at thepedestrian level

Recommendations

Pedestrian zonePoured in place concrete in anaggregate color should be used todefine the pedestrian zone, thesidewalk area located between thebuilding or property line and the curbor curb zone. In general, thepedestrian zone should be no lessthan 6 feet wide and provide anunobstructed pathway to allow twopeople to walk side by side.

Vs: Streetscape section

Vr: Streetscape plan

Vt: Location map


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Logan Circle to create a unified boulevard image for the corridor. Due

the existing large trees that already visually define the two sidesof the boulevard, the median becomes the primary element forenhancing the avenues appearance.

Consider creating 32 inch high raised planter beds along the medianstrip with decorative concrete sidewalls per DDOT standards. Thistreatment will help to define the median strip, improve public safety,Create a clearly defined pedestrian safety zone at crosswalks, andcreate a clear visual image that will be unique to the boulevard.Installunique ground covers and natural grass plant materials planted in a welldesigned and unique fashion to add to the boulevard image. Considerinstalling Washington Globe lights along the middle of the median toenhance street lighting and replace existing cobra head lights.Median

lighting would create an exceptional boulevard image.

Correct sidewalk buckling due to root growth without cutting the

tree root system.

In order to mitigate sidewalk buckling at the base of mature trees liningthe boulevard, replace the buckled sidewalk sections with a smoothcurved section that bridges the root system without damage. While thisis not the best solution, the question becomes one of prolonging thelife of mature trees that define the visual character of the boulevard, ordramatically reducing tree life in favor of a flat sidewalk. Although thesuggested solution is not optimal, the proposed smooth surface willimprove pedestrian access along the sidewalk while protecting the

remaining life of the mature trees.

Create art sites at corner stores and public parks.Utilize public open spaces and corner retail stores as public art sites tocreate an "Art Boulevard". The street corners between Florida Avenueand Logan Circle that present opportunities for installing public artare:

Florida and Rhode Island Avenue reserve on the north side

The retail store on the South/East corner of 5th and RhodeIsland AvenueMother Cooper Park at 6th and Rhode Island Avenue

The wide sidewalk on the north side of 7th and Rhode Island

Avenue

The W. T. Daniel Library site at the intersection of 7th andRhode Island AvenueThe retail store on the South/West corner of 8th and Rhode

Island AvenueCarter G. Woodson Park at 9th and Rhode Island Avenue

The Shaw Junior High School site at 10th and Rhode Island

AvenueThe triangular traffic island at 11th and Rhode Island Avenue

The retail establishments located on the north and south

corners of Rhode Island Avenue and 11th StreetThe park located on the south side of Rhode Island Avenue

between 12th Street and Logan Circle


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V. Rhode Island AvenueBoulevard


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Blagden Alley andNaylor Court

Figure Vab:Alley Plan


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Objectives

Build on the recent efforts by DDOT to improveBlagden Alley and Naylor Court as unique historicenvironments that serve a mix of residential,commercial, retail, and institutional uses.

The recently installed brick paving throughoutBlagden Alley and Naylor Court by DDOT hasdramatically enhanced their image and improvedtheir use by both residental and commercialproperties served by the alleyways.

Enhance the human-scale and historic characterof Blagden Alley and Naylor Court Historic Districtthat presents a unique urban setting for thepeople who live and work in this area of the city.

Recommendations

Maintain the newly installed brick paving

Maintain the new brick paving in running bondpattern throughout all alleyways. Any repairsmade to the new paving should be matched to,and patched with, the same brick and pavingpattern.

Figure Vac: Location Map


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LightingCobra head street lights, which are the DDOT standard foralleyways, should be painted black to create a unifiedimage to the modern looking gray metal fixtures.

Banner hardware should be incorporated on all single anddouble Washington Globe light poles.

Consideration should be given to include hanging flowerbasket hardware on light poles to provide the opportunity forlocal citizens, organizations or institutions to install flowerbaskets and maintain flowers.

Concept for Further Considerations

Alleyway entranceways to buildings

To mitigagte the large-scale intensity of the cobraheadstreetlights consider the use of decorative outdoor lighting atbuilding entranceways. Located head-high, entrancewaylighting will provide additional security for pedestrians andcreate a more intimate night time image.

Gateway treatments at alley entrances

Consider creating gateway elements at entranceways toBlagden Alley and Naylor Court, from major city streets, that

will clearly define the boundaries, establish a clear sense ofterritory and defensible space, and provide opportunities forentranceway signage.

Visual enhancements

Consider the addition of flower boxes, banners, decorativewall murals, hanging signs, and the use of highlight colors toemphasize building entrances that will add visual interestand improve access to alley businesses and residences.


39

Figure Vae: Pole Mounted

Hanging Flower Basket

Blagden Alley and

Naylor Court

Figure Vad:Alley Entrance Apron


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VI. Appendix


40

VIc: Single Washington

Globe Light

VId:Double

Washington GlobeVIe: Cobrahe

Streetli

Lighting

Street Furniture

VIf:Bike Rack VIg: Plainwell Trash

Receptacle

VIh: Plainwell Ben


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Appendix


41

VIi: Concrete Pavers VIj:Concrete Unit

Pavers

VIk:Amenity Zone

Possibilities

Paving

Treepits

VIl: Tree grate VIm: Planted treepit VIn: Continuous

Treepit


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Appendix


42

VIo: Acer rubrum

October Glory Red

VIp: Koelreuteria

paniculata Golden

VIq: Liquidumbar

styracifua Sweet Gum

Canopy Trees

VIu:Ulmus americana

Princeton Princeton

VIv: Ulmus parvifolia

Chinese Elm

VIw: Zelkova serrata

Japanese Zelkova

VIr: Platanus

acerifolia London

VIs: Quercus phellos

Willow OakVIt: Tilia cordata

Littleleaf Linden


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Appendix


43

VIx:Amelanchier

canadensis

VIy: Cercis canadensis

RedbudVIz: Crataegus

phaenopyrum Hawtho

Flowering Trees

VIaa: Lagerstroemia

indica Crepe Myrtle

VIab: Magnolia

Galaxy Galaxy

Magnolia

VIac: Prunus Okame

Okame Cherry

Flowering Trees should be used for open space enhancements.


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Appendix


44

A. Review Process

National Historic Trust for PreservationDistrict Department of TransportationGuidelines Advisory Committee: review and give advice on the development of the Conceptual Streetscapeguidelines and funding options.DC Office of PlanningWashington Convention CenterDepartment of Parks and RecreationShaw Main StreetsCommunity Outreach - Public MeetingsPublic Meeting #1 Information GatheringPublic Meeting #2 PresentationShaw Main Streets MeetingANC 2F Meeting

ANC 2C MeetingEast Central Civic Association Public MeetingFriends of Kennedy Playground MeetingBlagden Alley/ Naylor Court Association

B. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design Considerations

Open Space DesignsCrime Prevention Through Environmental Design is an approach to design that focuses on creating spaces thatreduce the risk of providing criminal opportunity. In general CPTED offering the following principles:

Territoriality/Ownership-defines the intended use of the area? What behavior is allowed? What risks can beanticipated and planned for? Fences, pavement treatments, art, signs, good maintenance, and landscaping are

some physical ways to express ownership and encourage people to protect the spaces.Territory-defines the physical limits of the area or public spaces.Design-Does the physical environment support the intended use safely and efficiently?Activity Support--encourage legitimate activity in public spaces to help discourage crime and increases active

natural surveillance and the feeling of ownership.Natural surveillance-Organize circulation patterns, site features and furnishing and activities in way that

maximizes the ability to see what's going on and discourages crime.Eliminate barriers such as dense vegetation, blind corners, shadows and poorly lit areas, and expansive

spaces void of entrances or windows that reduce opportunities of spontaneous observation.Access control--Properly locate entrances, exits, fencing landscaping and lighting to direct both foot and

automobiletraffic in ways that discourage crime.

C. Web References

Historic Preservation GuidelinesThrive: A Guide to Storefront DesignDDOT Plans and GuidelinesConvention Center Area Strategic Development PlanShaw Main Streets Design Committee Work PlanNTHP Commercial Corridor Development Plan (7th and 9th Streets)SNAPS Strategic Neighborhood Action PlansDowntown Action PlanUptown Destination District Strategic Development Plan


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VI. Appendix


45

Plans Affecting Outside the Immediate Study Streets and Surrounding AreaMount Vernon Master PlanK Street Redevelopment PlanCity Vista

CPTED Principles National Crime Prevention Council http://www.ncpc.org/ncpc/ncpc

D. Image CreditsAll images and photos were produced by National Trust for Historic Preservation or Lee and Associates with thefollowing exceptions:

Id: Cultural Tourism for DC IIa - IIb: Washington Historical SocietyVIf-VIh: Landscape Forms - Outdoor Furniture and AccessoriesVIo: Grow Native - Missouri Department of AgricultureVIp: JR Manhart- http://www.csdl.tamu.edu/FLORA/imaxxsap.htm

VIq: http://www.mytho-fleurs.comVIr: Cornell University Dept. of HorticultureVIt: Univerisity of Missouri Division of Plant ScienceVIu: Bold Spring Nursery - www.boldspring.comVIv: Texarkana College Biological -Scienceshttp://www.texarkanacollege.edu/~mstorey/plants/P000256.jpgVIw - VIx: University of Connecticut HorticultureVIy: Dirrs Hardy Trees and Shrubs, Michael A. Dirr, 1997VIz: Tao Herb Farm- http://www.naturehills.com/Product_images/otherimages/ washington_hawthorne_4.jpgVIaa:VIab: Crocus - http://www.crocus.co.uk/graphics/products2/PL/00/00/00 /41/PL0000004123_card.jpg

VIac: University of Alabama at Huntsville http://www.uah.edu/admin/Fac/images/ okamefl.jpg


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VI. Appendix


46

Figure VIa: Downtown Vicinity Map showing the relationship of location of

the study area in respect to the rest of downtown . Connections to Silver

Spring, MD and College Park, MD show regional vehicular connections.


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VI. Appendix

1. Logan Circle

2. Triangle Park3. Rhode Island Ave Center Median4. Skate Park & Ball Fields5. Shaw Jr. High School6. Seton Elementary School7. Carter G. Woodson Park8 S E corner 9th Str & Rhode Island Ave

1.2.

3.

4. 5.

6.

10.

7.

9.

11. 12. 13.

14.

15.

16.

17. 18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

25.26. 27. 28.

31.

29.30.

24.

23.

16. Community Garden

17. O Street Market/Giant Site18. Kennedy Playground & Rec Center19. Apartment Plaza20. Apartment Plaza21. Building set back - Mixed use space22. Convention Center Metro entrance

8.

Figure VIb: Opportunity areas

are highlighted to showpotential for open space

enhancements, redevelopment

opportunities and proposed

art sites

Convention

Center

L Street L Street

O Street

P Street

9THS

treet

7THS

treet

NewY

orkAv

enueMassachusettsAvenue

Rhode

Island

Avenu

e

conceptual streetscape design guidelines for the 7th and 9th street corridors from mt. vernon square...

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