Government St. Garage Upgrade

CTD-7

Observation

The two parking garages on Government Street are avoided by people who have a choice.

Discussion

These garages are an unpleasant experience and seem to be dangerous places. If these garages are to contribute to the Downtown, these recommendations are important. Grills blocking the view from the outside should be removed or redesigned, as visual supervision enhances safety. The enclosed stairwells, elevators, and bridges retain urine smells and must be pressure cleaned weekly. Spaces reserved for visitors should be closest to the entry while employees should use the less convenient spaces.

The garages have a rather somber look both inside and out, which becomes an insidious gloom by the evening hours. While this is a fundamental design flaw that cannot be corrected, much can be achieved by interior paint and good lighting. There is a justified concern that paint may not be properly maintained, particularly after rain intrusion. It is still necessary to pressure-clean these structures both inside and out. This will lighten them considerably.

Lighting improvements are not optional if the garages are ever to be voluntarily used. The exterior of these structures should be skillfully lit as a soft glow from sources across the streets. The interior should be lit by modern fixtures (full-spectrum light reflecting off the ceiling), not by the yellow sodium fixtures currently in place. This system, while more expensive, will create an inviting glow as seen from the outside through the horizontal openings, not unlike an office building.

Recommendation

Pressure clean the garages inside and out. Institute an ongoing pressure cleaning schedule for the stairways and bridges. Change parking policy to reserve the places closest to the entrance for periodic visitors. Modify the security screens at the perimeter to a type with greater transparency. Install an interior and exterior lighting scheme following a trial design at the State West Garage. The crosswalk from the garages should be greatly improved.

Responsibility

Department of Public Works

Project Status

DPW has completed cleaning the stairwells and removed obstructions from the front of the Garages. They are in the process of upgrading the lighting for both garages.

The Centroplex’s convention center expansion RFP included study of access to municipal garages. With planned developments such as the Centroplex’s convention center expansion and the Planetarium Space Theater, there will be additional demand for parking in this location.

The Baton Rouge Downtown Transportation Plan suggests rehabilitation of these garages along with an efficient shuttle system between the garages and the CBD. At the January 8,2002 DDD Commission Meeting, DPW announced that it would clean the garages and install new lighting during the first quarter of 2002.

Implementation

Explanation of Terms

Product

Improve existing garage

Responsibility

DPW

Implementing Agent

DPW

Feasibility Analysis

DPW

Initial Financing

DPW

Project Financing

CPF

Timing