Methodology/Rationale
In choosing the locations of our proposed planters, we used several criteria based on information gathered through our own observations and from information provided by the Business Improvement District (BID). First, through direct observation, we determined that Broadway, though heavily used by both pedestrians and vehicles, was void of street buffers or any form of streetscaping. We felt that this was not only unfriendly to pedestrian use, but also presented a safety concern. Broadway is a five-lane road, with no division between the fast-moving traffic and pedestrians. By introducing planters in this area, we feel that a more beautiful, inviting pedestrian corridor could be created that would also address safety concerns.
Second, we referenced several maps created by Denver’s BID. These maps delineate the pedestrian network, highlight high-priority traffic corridors, and provide an assessment prioritizing the BID according to area pricing. The 16th Street Mall is the highest priority for pedestrians, but there have already been significant improvements in the area, so we identified other priority areas as well. These included the ends of 16th Street and Lower Downtown (LoDo), which both have high pedestrian traffic. Because of its proximity to 16th Street and its status as an epicenter for Denver nightlife, we placed many planters in LoDo. This neighborhood also contains Coors Field, a significant gathering place in the city that pulls large numbers of pedestrians to the area.
Our third criterion for choosing planter locations was the priority placed on different zones through BID assessment. This assessment calculated each zone’s contribution to the total BID budget – from which a priority scale was created ranging from 1 to 12, with 1 being highest priority. For the purposes of this assignment we used these assessment guidelines to identify any properties that stood out as being obviously large contributors based on several factors, including commercial building size and density, to determine which buildings lacked planters according to our observations.
It is important to note, though, that we did not consider every possible location in the BID for planter improvement. There are several areas around downtown that have recently or are currently undergoing improvements – like the 14th Street streetscaping project. We felt that placing planters in these areas would have been a waste, considering the future, more comprehensive improvements underway.
In placing these planters in our proposed locations, we feel that a more beautiful Denver can be created. By enhancing areas like Broadway and LoDo, the city can create a better pedestrian environment while simultaneously addressing safety issues.