Batavia,
IL
The design
for River Street is the beginning of an economic revitalization for downtown
Batavia, IL. This street’s historic buildings and central location made it an
ideal starting point for downtown redevelopment. Existing restaurants, cafes and retail
provided a major opportunity to assist with creating a real sense of place.
The
community wanted to preserve the historic look and feel of the street, while encouraging
new and different uses. The design for River Street is a Dutch woonerf, or
flexible shared street concept that that re-imagines the street as a multi-use
public space. The curbless design and single continuous brick surface prioritize
pedestrian uses. Custom planters,
expanded tree pits, benches, LED lighting and permeable paving finish off the
street. A contemporary custom designed wood and steel gateway honors the timber
construction of the historic building interiors and marks the entrance to the
corridor.