River Road Redesign

DPC-1

Observation

The River Road acts as a barrier separating the Downtown from its river.

Discussion

The physical design of River Road, while less obstructive than the elevated highways found along the banks of many urban rivers, nevertheless is an impediment to pedestrian crossing. There are several reasons: First is the road’s high-speed highway-style geometrics; the second is the presence of the dual railroad tracks; and the third is the steep slope of the embankment.

The problem of geometrics is discussed in Traffic in General. The basic remedy is to transform the highway into a parkway by converting the two outer driving lanes into parking lanes. This change would slow down the traffic, yielding a more pedestrian friendly environment, as well as providing much-needed parking. The streetscape, now raw and treeless, must be lined with trees. The downtown must access the river from new parks at the higher level of Lafayette Street. These are discussed under the sections on the Lafayette Park and Laurel Plaza. The resulting four points of river access constitute a system of places, perfectly spaced to be within walking distance of every sector of the Downtown.

Recommendation

Redesign River Road to be more hospitable to pedestrians. See Transportation in General.

Responsibility

Plan Baton Rouge and Downtown Development District

Project Status

The city and state agreed to redesign and provide funding to remove the high-speed curve. The new 20-mph curve is completed, but the additional on-street parking will be added after building construction is completed. The road has remained passable to provide access to the Sheraton Hotel and the USS Kidd.

In August 2003, Plan Baton Rouge and DDD along with private property owners along River Road, engaged Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, Inc. to create an image-setting master plan for the riverfront district area. The plan suggests the narrowing of River Road to accommodate theplanting of large trees on both sides.

Implementation

Explanation of Terms

Product

Improved Roadway

Responsibility

PBR & DDD

Implementing Agent

DPW & DOTD

Feasibility Analysis

DPW & DOTD

Initial Financing

DPW & DOTD

Project Financing

SCB

Timing