“Together we have a stronger voice.”
Comments on Streetscape Plans
Summary of discussion on streetscapes/traffic/parking: Prepared by Debbie Weixl
2007 Master Plan Streetscape Visioning (sections exerpted):
The 2008 Central Street Plan has sections adressing transportation and streetscape that address some of the issues discussed in this breakout session
E. Transportation
E7. Bike Routes: Although cyclists should be encouraged
to use nearby east-west residential streets, the addition
of bike routes to Central Street should be considered
where the street width allows.
F. Streetscape
The following are recommendations for streetscape improvements.
Also see Central Street: Streetscape Study for more information on
streetscape conditions and design concepts.
F1. Pavement: Improve the paved surface for pedestrians,
bicycles and vehicles.
F2. Street Furniture: Upgrade the quality and increase
the amount of street furniture such as benches, trash
receptacles, moveable planters, bike racks, and tree
grates.
F3. Street Trees: Establish a consistent, well-maintained
street tree program with street trees spaced 25 to 30 feet,
and improve landscaping in adjacent open spaces.
F4. Lighting: Improve lighting conditions throughout all
commercial districts and replace any light bases or poles
that are in disrepair.
F5. Crosswalks: Enhance pedestrian crosswalks with new
paving or markings, improved lighting and consistent
signage.
F6. Landscaping: Screen and buffer surface parking lots
bordering the street with landscaping and/or ornamental
fences.
F7. Sidewalk Width: Establish a standard sidewalk width
within commercial areas of 14 feet and within residential
areas of 5 feet, where feasible.
F8. Street Width: Decrease the street width west of
Lincolnwood to approximately 42 feet to provide
additional sidewalks and pedestrian refuge.
Ryan Field Area Streetscape and Parking Visioning:
A. Provide pedestrian connection to surrounding neighborhood
B. New resurfaced/reorganized parking lot with landscaping and cedar fencing for screening on West side adjacent to alley
C. New green space to support game day activities
D. 3-story shared structure parking
E. 1-story 10,500 square foot retail development with roof garden
F. Improve pedestrian environment including: "bump-outs" at appropriate intersections, wider sidewalks, upgraded sidewalks, new street trees, new street furniture and pedestrian lights
G. New plaza/green space around stadium for game day festivities
H. 4-story mixed-use building 1st floor; 7,000 square feet retail 2nd-4th floor; 21,000 square feet office
March 31, 2011 CSNA Central St. Development Forum
Citizen Comments and Suggested Developments:
A primary focus was on a plan for improving traffic flow and parking at Central and Hartrey proposed by the city and provided by City Engineer Paul Schneider (See figures in Hartrey to Poplar section) . Schneider reviewed the proposal as a possible model, to move the entry and exit for the existing parking lot onto Stewart and provide for additional parking on Central. The group focused on the need for additional parking, safety and expressed concerns for traffic on residential streets to the north as a result of the relocated entry. The city has estimated that this plan may result in about six extra spots. There were suggestions of connecting the parking to Independence Park and expanding pedestrian-friendly areas. It seemed to some that the plan was recycled from others in the past. Apparently, funds exist and it is a priority to improve the traffic flow.
There is also a need to provide for accessible handicapped parking and a crossing that would permit handicapped to get across the street with a light. Part of the plan includes a bike rack, with the proposal that there be some architectural art incorporated into the design of this rack.
Schneider welcomed input from community members on the effectiveness of the new crosswalk law and the signage, which has created some confusion. Most agreed the marked walks were an improvement, but that without additional signage, cars are just not stopping for pedestrians as they should.
Additional talk turned to the current office on the park just west of Hartrey which is an historical building. There was talk of a community friendly facility, or possible outdoor dining establishment. This may be seasonal.
Other Issue:
General appearance of Central Street and condition of sidewalks and street appearance. Schneider said that plans were in discussion about new walkways and plantings to develop a true streetscape for Central Street, consistent with downtown.
Bike lanes: the group was asked for input on the effectiveness of the bike lanes going west to Crawford. Many felt that cars still saw the street as two lanes in each direction and that there are speeders, and those not yielding to bikers – or pedestrians.
Northwestern University: many expressed concern about the condition of the walkways and the unsightly parking lots at Ryan Field. Schneider questioned whether there could be a plan for a parking garage, underground or above ground that would be more attractive and help ease traffic and parking issues on game days and for graduations.
Ryan Field to NorthShore University Hospital: Between the hospital and the athletic facilities, there is traffic and limited public parking. Schneider said he would ask around and explore the possibility of TIF or other funds for this. Many felt that the general condition of the trees, bushes, parkways, sidewalks was an immediate concern.
CTA station and Frank Govern Golf Course: As time drew short, a few other items came up including other uses for the parking lot at the Golf Course (seasonal now) and maintenance generally of property at the CTA and golf course, including sidewalk maintenance and litter.