PAWTUCKET DOWNTOWN DESIGN PLAN FINAL ... - VHB.com

DESIGN Streetscape and Pedestrian Systems
SIDEWALK RIBBON SYSTEM
The sidewalk ribbon system would apply at all future street improvement
projects except on Main Street which has a special character and unique
design. The basic streetscape system works as follows:
RECOMMENDATIONS
SYSTEM
Help make finding the pedestrian path easy, especially across
roadways
Design the sidewalk like a continuous ribbon
To help prioritize the pedestrian, the sidewalk becomes the dominant right of
way in all public spaces between the automobile travel lanes and private lots.
The primary component of the ribbon is the concrete sidewalk itself that is
positioned towards the center of the available space. Between the sidewalk
and the roadway is a small buffer space that stays constant and provides
space for trees, plantings, and permeable paving along with any public
amenities such as benches, trash receptacles, newspaper vending, utility
poles, lighting, signage and fire hydrants. This organizes the public walking
space into a clear zone and also offers an easy way to create a tree trench
rather than set holes that allow for healthier urban trees and better drainage.
Special paving distinguishes areas that are not part of the ribbon and helps to
reduce the amount of impervious surfaces. On the other side of the sidewalk
are either private lots, buildings without setbacks or pedestrian-oriented
programmed spaces like gardens, walkways, seating, or plazas.
The ribbon system can be modified for the specific condition or types of edges
available. When the ribbon arrives at the corner, it is aligned with curb cut
ramps and crosswalks, so that the egress path is clear and delineated. The
ramp then directly enters in protected crosswalk space and directs pedestrians
to the ramp on the other side which is then connected to the sidewalk beyond.
Facilitating pedestrian travel encourages it.
The PDDP also considered the need to integrate the sidewalk into new
development and redevelopment opportunities with revisions to local
regulations. Orientation of buildings, sidewalk materials, entrance way design,
and windows are all addressed as part of the proposed Design Guidelines,
which are specifically geared toward enhancing the pedestrian experience.
These guidelines are presented in greater detail in Appendix page (tbd).
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PDDP DESIGN